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PART FOUR
CHAPTER 1 - THE DIVINE SERPENT SUPER POWER AND ATTAINING IT
PROLOGUE
In the region of Saptasarovar (Haridwar, India), one can find the Brahmavarchas Research Centre on the banks of the holy Ganges river. It has 3 floors and about 90 rooms. The first floor hosts the divine room of Gayatri Shakti Pith. The second floor hosts the philosophical research and spiritual practice room. The third floor has many scientific apparatus. On the terrace one finds a garden blooming with herbs etc. used for Yajnas (Vedic fire sacrifices). In the Enquiry Counter one can give /take information regarding research studies. Yajnas are carried out non-stop in Yajnashalas. There are residential quarters for research scientists of Brahmavarchas. There is also a library and clinic. There is a book store for selling books. This is the birds eye view of the map of Brahmavarchas Research Centre. One always gets attracted by this Centre.
He who is the founder of the Brahmavarchas Research Centre, he who has moulded this Centre seems ordinary when seen superficially, yet when one studies the inner personality of this great saint, one cannot but say that he is extraordinary. The captain of this great ship (called Brahmavarchas) is none other than the (Late) Yuga Rishi Shriram Sharma Acharya. People involved in spiritual practices, righteous tasks, spirituality, philosophical reading etc. know this great saint very well. For more than 40 years Yuga Rishi Shriram Sharma Acharya was the editor, publisher of the magazine Akhand Jyoti that correlated science with spirituality. The maturity of this magazine, glory and number of people reading it is incomparable. Our revered Acharyaji has translated the 4 Vedas, 108 Upanishads, Smritis, Aranyaks, Brahman, Sutras and 18 Puranas. These publications have been made available for readers all over the world. Apart from this our revered Yuga Rishi has authored 600 books. He is a very well-read saint, a great philosopher and one who has heard discourses of other great personalities of the world. He has carried out amazing creative tasks in the fields of religion and material living.
The true personality of our revered Yuga Rishi overflows with austerities, spiritual endeavour and like a true Brahmin, he abhors hoarding. For 24 years he partook meals of jowar bread and thin buttermilk. Further he executed 24 Mahapuracharanas of Gayatri Maha Mantra by chanting it 24 lakh times. These gigantic austerities are very rare to witness in this modern world of materialism. He visited very tortuous regions of the snow clad Himalayan mountains in North India for performing special Yogic practices. A lot has been written about the importance of Gayatri yet one cannot find another book akin to Gayatri Science (written by our revered Yuga Rishi) i.e. Parts 1,2,3 that talks of Gayatri philosophy, at the experiential level. So far we have printed 21 editions of this Gayatri Science. It is called the rarest of rare books pertaining to Gayatri studies.
Crores of men have worshipped Gayatri under his guidance and thus have attained many benefits. There were others who approached him for blessings so as to ward off their worldly miseries. Despite being an outstanding scholar and sage, he was straightforward, simple and humble. At the ripe age of 71 years he was energetic and alert like any zealous youth and thus everyone was convinced that someone extraordinary is dwelling in an ordinary body. It is under the guidance of such a super great seer, that research is being carried out at Brahmavarchas Research Institute. Although research is carried out by highly educated scientists and doctors yet they are guided and inspired by our revered Yuga Rishi. As a result this Institute is a beacon light to millions all over the world.
CHAPTER 2 - THE TRUE NATURE AND BASIS OF SUPER POWER KUNDALINI
The chief aim of Indian Yoga practices is to attain Jeevan-Mukti (liberated in life). If we study the evolution process of all creatures of the world, man is said to be at the top rung of the ladder. This is because he has those powers of wisdom and discrimination (Vivek) which helps him jump high on the ladder of evolution. Further he is capable of carrying out any difficult task with his inner powers. Majority of human beings in this world persevere so as to attain superficial material benefits. They feel that in order to carry out such tasks, it is enough if they have material wealth, bodily might and sharp intelligence. Very few people in this world realize that apart from the above 3 powers, man needs soul force so as to carry out other super human tasks. It is a fact that soul force is the ultimate goal of our life and that no other force can compare with it. In order to attain soul force one has to take recourse to Yogic spiritual practices.
People who after understanding their mental taints, take up the path of Yoga so as to overcome these taints and thus attain the true goal of a human life, start imbibing soul force slowly but steadily. Thus they not only achieve worldly/material goals but that they ascend the high peaks of spirituality. Not only do they themselves benefit but that they spiritually and materially uplift scores of other human beings of the world.
Apart from the well-known disciplines of spiritual practices pertaining to Yoga, great seers of Spiritual Sciences have given us various paths and branches of Yoga after performing successful Yoga penances. Amongst all these paths Kundalini-Yoga is of prime importance (Kundalini = Divine Serpent Power). With its aid, that divine energy manifests in a human body which purifies mans consciousness. Such a person can experience the subtle world too apart from the gross world as per his desire. Thus instead of being limited by narrowness, he can witness the movements of the gigantic cosmos. In the Indian spiritual text called Hatha Yoga Pradeepika it is said :
Just as the substratum of the entire world, including forests etc, in Shesha-Naga (chief of serpents), so too the basis of all Yoga practices is the Divine Serpent Power (Kundalini). When due to the Gurus (spiritual preceptor) grace our Kundalini awakens, all the 6 Chakras (plexuses) are unlocked. At that time the void state of the vital force (Prana) turns into a royal path (Sushumna). The mind is rendered devoid of thoughts and one overcomes the fear of death.
- Hatha Yoga Pradeepika (3-1,2,3)
In other Indian spiritual texts, especially in Tantras, when the nature and upliftment of Kundalini is described, it is said,
Kundalini which dwells in the Mooladhar Chakra bestows on man all kinds of divine powers, knowledges and ultimately liberation (Moksha).
This Kundalini (Divine Serpent Power) is called Parama Prakriti. This Kundalini is present in all demi-gods, demons, human beings, birds, beasts, butterflies etc.
Just as a honey bee dwells in a blooming lotus flower, so too this Divine Serpent Power dwells in our body. Consciousness dwells in this Divine Serpent Power or Kundalini. It is amazing that despite this Divine Serpent Power being extremely important, majority of world humanity fails to pay heed to it. It is a very subtle divine power. By referring to its subtlety the Yoga scriptures say,
The Divine Serpent Power dances in the hearts of Yogis. It is the one that manifests eternally and in the form of electrical Super Power, it is the substratum of all creatures. It means that unless this Divine Serpent Power is activated, mans inner radiance cannot bloom forth.
The Divine Serpent Power is the active and radiant manifestation of soul force. It is the original, eternal energy of a living being given by the Lord Almighty. In the latent state this power is unknown and appears dead. Under such conditions this power gets no benefits. But if its state is aptly understood, we will realize that the eternal wealth which we search for in the external material world is in fact present within us as the eternal storehouse of divine power. This divine power is within the cave of our soul and can be called the wish-fulfilling cow or Kamadhenu. Scriptures based on spiritual practices while giving us a glimpse of this superpower present in our soul, opine that we should dive deep into our soul and realize our gigantic potential. Here are a few quotations regarding the Divine Serpent Power
The Divine Serpent Power or Kundalini dwells in the Mooladhar Chakra (plexus) i.e. in the central region of the excretory organs. Its form is that of intense energy. Its nature is that of electricity. In deep meditation one can see it light up as brilliant lightning. It is cyclic in form and like a sleeping female snake.
So far we have discussed the anatomical aspect of the Divine Serpent Power. Now we need to understand its basis, cause, nature and capability. It is said to be Brahmi Shakti or divine energy. The river Ganges of India left heaven, so as to appear on earth in order to glorify our world. In the same way this divine energy manifests in the soul of pious spiritual seekers and makes them powerful both materially and spiritually. It is said that
This Super Power Kundalini with a golden aura bestows us with fearlessness. It is Vaishnavi. It creates Sattva (purity of mind), Rajas (activity) and Tamas (indolence). It is our life force which dwells in the Mooladhar Chakra as the soul radiance in the form of a fireball. Its shape is like the brilliant vital force or Prana. It is God manifest. It has various forms. This divine energy which fulfills all our pious desires is called Divine Serpent Power or Kundalini.
Within Yogic practices with reference to the fruits of activation of the Divine Serpent Power, the beliefs are virtually the same in the entire world. As a result of success via spiritual practices, a spiritual seeker is endowed with many divine powers. It is said that such an individual of ordinary stature rises up phenomenally to become a great realized saint or Sidha Purusha. The amount of discussions on the importance of Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power activation in Yogic texts is so gigantic that no other spiritual practice has been given such worldwide importance. No doubt their means and descriptions differ a bit but the well-known belief is that one gets extraordinary help from Kundalini awakening wherein the inner soul force of man gets converted from a latent state into an intensely active form.
When the Divine Serpent Power of a spiritual seeker is activated, it cannot be said that this divine energy is his own creation. This is because the activated Divine Serpent Power is cosmically all-pervasive. An apt pious spiritual seeker via spiritual practices attracts this cosmic power to his own soul and thus makes it intensely powerful. As a result such a powerful spiritual seeker reaches dizzy heights of both the material and spiritual arena of life.
What exactly is this Divine Serpent Power or Kundalini? With reference to this scriptural scholars and great seers / saints, on the basis of their experiences have put forth many precepts. In the Jnanarnava Tantra (Indian scripture) Kundalini is described as the Mother of the world and a divine energy that controls this world. World activities take place with tortuous preludes. The movements of atoms, stars, galaxies, planets etc. are rotational and revolutional. All our thoughts, words etc. start at a certain point in space and after traveling to a certain far off place, it returns to its original point. This cycle of movement is one of the 4 weapons of God. It is also called the transformational process of Lord Mahakal. It is this that induces movement in a living being like a ball of mud. Just as a potter makes various articles from mud/clay, so too it plays the role of raising and throwing down the state of our soul. The Divine Serpent Power generates energy in macro form as far as the cosmos is concerned and micro as far as an individual living being is concerned.
In spiritual literature, especially the Indian Upanishads, Kundalini or the Divine Serpent Power is discussed a great deal. But one should not think that only this description is total. Because beyond this there is a lot more that needs to be researched into, spoken about and understood deeply. We must keep an open mind so as to understand more deeply, the results of conjoining these incomplete theories.
In the Kathopanishad the dialogue between Yama-Nachiketa revolves around the Panchagni Vidya or the 5-fold science of fire. This can be correlated to the 5-fold description of the Divine Serpent Power. In the Shwetashwatar Upanishad it is called the Fire of Yoga. In the Yoga Pradeepika it is called Spirit of Fire. Scholars of Tantra like John Woodroffe calls it Serpentine Fire.
Madam Blavatsky called it Cosmic Electricity. She described it as a conscious flow of energy akin to cosmic electricity. In her book Voice of Silence she says
It is called Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power because it moves like a snake. A Yogic seeker imbibes the ordinary movement as cyclic in his body and as a result of this practice his individual energy augments greatly. This Kundalini which is an electrical fire power, is hidden. It is that natural energy which is present in the substratum of all creatures and objects of the cosmos.
Two types of energies work in a Brahmin- one is secular and the other is spiritual. They can also be called physical and metaphysical. People prove the existence of obvious forces via technology and think that to be the ultimate force. But it is vain to denounce those cosmic forces whose existence cannot be proved by technological apparatus. At the beginning of creation man knew very little of Mother Nature. In fact men knew as much as beasts of forests knew regarding maintenance of their body was concerned. It was only later that man started understanding the laws of nature and started utilizing the same for creating material benefits. At first man discovered fire and utilized it effectively. But today he has attained great benefits with the help of electrical forces and this science evolved slowly but surely. Human beings during Adams era that thought his knowledge of those times was the ultimate reality. He proudly proclaimed at that time that apart form whatever I know today, nothing more exists.
Under todays modern circumstances their past prejudice can only be mocked at. Similarly if we look upon todays achievements as the ultimate truth, we are definitely going to obstruct the path of further research and progress. Because of a prejudiced standpoint, one thinks materialism to be the ultimate truth. In fact material scientists allude to the existence of consciousness to a mere material manifestation. While walking on the path of progress, scientists are now experiencing the independent existence of consciousness. They are being known to accept that its potential and power supercedes the potency of material objects.
In recent years no doubt the divine existence of Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power has been accepted yet in the scientific arena there are some scientists who describe it as a form of ones bodily potential. Anatomists call it the nervous force that emanates from the nervous system. Dr. Rele in his most talked about book Mysterious Kundalini calls it the vagus nerve. He further says that when its potency, that controls the muscles and nervous system, works in spiritual tasks, it becomes the Divine Serpent Power. According to him when one gets control of this power, one can control ones voluntary and involuntary bodily movements as per ones desire. This self-control is indeed a very great feat. Thus it means that we can mould our psyche and thus our destiny/future too. He sings praises of Kundalini from this standpoint and advises one and all to activate this Divine Serpent Power so as to make apt use of it.
The Introductory note of Dr. Reles Mysterious Kundalini has been written by the Tantra expert Sir John Woodroffe. Over there Sir Woodroffe has disagreed with Dr. Reles observation which opines that Kundalini is merely on electrical flow of the physical bodily centre. Sir John agrees that It is a grand potential i.e. it is a conscious and a divinely powerful energy and that it can never be compared to any material object or flow. According to him the nervous force is merely a gross aspect of the Divine Serpent Power and is not a creation of the nervous center. It is neither material in nature nor is it a mental force. In fact it is Kundalini that creates the above two. It works as a combined flow of static reality, dynamic reality and residual power. In an individuals consciousness, it lies in a latent state. He/She who activates Kundalini with intense effort becomes endowed with a very special power.
In scientific terms Kundalini is called life force or electromagnetism. Its center is said to be the brain. Even then the mystery of how the brain gets the capacity of executing various intellectual tasks has yet not unfolded. But Yogic texts answer this question by pointing towards the power of desire (Kama Shakti). They further say that it is this center that gives an opportunity to the unmanifested human existence, to manifest in a human body. It gives required inspiration to the various functions of the desire center. It is that magnetic crystal that creates a substratum for the working of the transistor in the form of the human body. The chance to manifest sexual (desire) power is attained via the medium of the genitals. Hence the Mooladhar Chakra (plexus) present in this region is called the center of the Divine Serpent Power or Kundalini. In short it is called Kund (pyre).
Hathyoga specialists have correlated it to the Kand present in the depth of the bladder region and say that it is egg shaped. Many have tried to correlate it to either the muscles of the body or the genitals or the male endocrine glands. Others opine that the mouth source of Kundalini is the covering of the triangular region at the base of our spinal cord. Another scholar says Ganglion Impar is where one can find Kundalini. It is because of such deluded beliefs that bodily exercises, postures, Bandha, Mudra etc. are correlated to activation of the Divine Serpent Power. That energy which manifests due to incitement of the nerve centers, shows its potential only for a very short time span. In comparison to this the Divine Serpent Power is eternal. Hence under such circumstances it is vain to call it muscular or nervous energy.
Kundalini is conscious energy. It can also be seen to work as life force, as the urge to live and also works in our body and psyches. The centers beyond this lie in a latent state. No doubt it is electrical energy yet it cannot be compared to the material electricity that is generated from batteries, dynamos, generators etc. When with the help of Kundalini the soul nature can be transformed like Kayakalps (bodily transformation), it cannot be called a material power. This Divine Serpent Power which plays an extraordinary role in uniting the individual soul (Creature) with the cosmic soul (God), which augments our bliss and zeal and which manifests miraculous powers, can be never be called material. Hence in short Kundalini is definitely a soul force and hence spiritual.
Another name of Kundalini is Fire of Life. It is the influence of this fire that manifests brilliance, radiance, hope, enthusiasm, zest, zeal etc. This Fire of Life pervades every atom of the cosmos. When it works in inert objects, it is called Apara Prakriti in spiritual terms. It is due to this that objects are created, propagated and transformed. Another form of Fire of Life is Para Prakriti. It is said to be the experience of all creatures. It encompasses the intellect, discrimination (Vivek), desire, knowledge, emotions etc. By making the unconscious mind its center, Para Prakriti controls the movements of the body, mind and inner nature.
The aim of the science of spiritual practices, is to help conjoin an individuals emotional Fire of Life with that cosmic sentimental consciousness and thus attain benefits that accrue out of such close proximity. A small machine makes itself powerful by joining one of its wires to the huge powerhouse of electricity. It is only when a wet/cold bar of wood comes in close proximity with a blazing fire, that it itself takes the form of brilliant fire.
The more intense is the bond built between the individual Fire of Life and God, to that extent divinity will manifest in a human being. Brahmavarchas or soul force is that special quality attained, due to building a bond with God via spiritual practices. It is different from the fleeting powers attained by living an ordinary material life. This soul force can be seen as radiance, power and importance of ones inner personality. When this soul force manifests in ones daily actions, such a person is called a seer, sage, Rishi, philosopher, superman etc. Sometimes their worldly actions are so out of this world, that it is termed a miracle by the ordinary layman.
The macro form of Fire of Life is called God Fire in spiritual terms and in its individual, micro form it is called soul or Fire of Life. The divine principle is described as Spiritual Science and science of living beings is described as soul science. Both these forces i.e. material and spiritual manifest from one single energy flow. Yet in order to understand their natures, it is classified into 2 aspects from the standpoint of analysis and experience. Electricity is one single principle. Based on cosmic laws its generation, union and separation takes place. Thus it is called positive or negative. In the same way the Fire of Life from the macro standpoint is called Para and Apara and from the micro standpoint is called God and individual soul. All that is taking place, all that has already taken place and all that will take place in future, comes within its jurisdiction.
In an individuals life i.e. within the human body the center of Para Prakriti or the conscious flow is the Brahmarandhra (central area of the brain) and is called the Sahasrar Kamal (1000-petalled lotus). It is also called Shiva, the Lord of Kailash or Vishnu who sleeps on Shesha Serpent or Kalagni. Another center is in the cave of the genitals. It is called the center of Apara Prakriti. It is also called Shakti, Parvati and the Fire of Life viz. Kundalini.
Both of them can also be called positive and negative electricity. The human body is called a small / micro sample of the macro visible cosmos. All types of forces present in this cosmos, exist in the human body. Just as on the basis of scientific experiments and technology one can benefit from electrical, ethereal etc. forces, in the same way via Yogic scientific practices one can manifest intense energies of Apara Prakriti present in the human body. All this can be seen as divine / miraculous acts of great Yogis. All these miraculous Sidhis (divine powers) generated via spiritual practices (Sadhana) must be accepted as advancement of the bodily Apara Prakriti. The root of the fount of divine energy is situated in the Kand region of the human genital organs and is none other than Kundalini or the Divine Serpent Power.
In the same way special qualities like pious acts, nature, viewpoint, discrimination, radiance, will power, soul force etc. seen in ones personality, are nothing but attainment of sensitive emotions from the conscious principle. Its central point is the Sahasrar Kamal (1000 petalled lotus) of the wisdom center of the brain. Over here dwells Kalagni in the form of Shiva. So far 2 benefits of soul wisdom have been listed i.e. 1) the conscious brilliance of ones emotions 2) extraordinary activities executed by the human body. These are also called Vibhootis or Sidhis (divine glories). These Vibhootis emanate from the brain center or the wisdom center i.e. divine sentiments. Sidhis emanate from the sexual center i.e. the Kund Kundalini or the energy fountain. Both these energy centers should be looked upon as the 2 poles of human existence. Our planet Earth has 2 poles i.e. the North Pole and the South Pole. In the same way mans brain center is called the North Pole and the genital center is called the South Pole. The science of attaining knowledge regarding the above 2 centres and utilizing its power in the internal and external area of lifes advancement in an apt manner is called Kundalini Science. There can be varied forms, means and paths of spiritual practices (Sadhana) yet they should be understood as differences only at the external symbolic level. The aim of all spiritual practices are the same as seen in Kundalini worship. The aim of wearing clothes is to protect the body from weather changes. In this world clothes of many designs are produced for this aim only. Hence it is form this standpoint that we should understand the most accepted spiritual beliefs and practices of various religious sects of the world. Although externally/superficially they seem different, their fundamental aim is the same. In Indian Spiritual Philosophy, this science has been put forth without adding any unwanted paraphernalia. It has been put forth in a very straightforward manner by diving deep into its fundamental roots. Thus it is easier to understand it and thus attain the goal of all human lives in a relatively facile manner.
The presiding deity of the soul force viz. Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power which can help a living being to imbibe divine powers of Lord of the Cosmos (God), has been described as follows :-
Kundalini, the presiding deity of divine energy sleeps like a female serpent in a coil of 3 1/2 rounds in the Mooladhar Chakra. As long as Kundalini sleeps, man behaves like a beast. Man makes many material efforts yet he remains animal like because his Kundalini is yet sleeping. If ones presiding energy is sleeping (inactive), ones world too is sleeping. But the day this Kundalini awakens, ones world too awakens.
- MAHAYOG VIJNAN
Via Yogic practices one can attain that Kundalini which shines like lightning, which is the mother of the 5 elements and the 5 Vital Forces, which is the supreme conscious energy and power of action.
In the Mooladhar Chakra lies the snake-like Divine Serpent Power and it shines brilliantly like a flame. Over there dwells a living being. If a persons Kundalini energy gets activated, know for sure that he is indeed very blessed.
- Gherand Samhita (6/16/18)
This Kundalini energy is like a sleeping female snake. It is movement, light and speech manifest. It is the energy of Lord Vishnu. It shines brilliantly like the golden sun.
- SHIV SAMHITA
The Kundalini energy sleeps like a female snake around a self-existent linga of Lord Shiva with a 3 1/2 rounded coil. This comparison tells us that Kundalini has all those 3 capabilities, which are the fundamental causes of advancement of human existence. On the basis of hopes, thinking, activities and spiritual endeavour, every human being marches ahead with success and thus experiences joy. The seeds of all these 3 are present in the deep recess of the Divine Serpent Power. On advancing all these, the 3 skills bloom forth from within. Thus on attaining the external means, it gets a chance of making it more advanced. But if the inner potential is inactive, external endeavour for progress never succeeds. The 3 legs of Gayatri are the 3 rounds of the snake-like Kundalini. It is said to be the root potential of human existence
This Kundalini super energy is immovable nature and divine speech. It is none other than God.
- PRAYANTRASARA TANTRA
The nature of the 3 mystic words is Bhuha desire power, Bhuvaha action power, Svaha wisdom power.
This Divine Serpent Power is pervaded with emotional bliss. When it is activated, man is filled up with so much emotional bliss that it is like the bucket of leather overflowing with water. Because this bliss evolves many skills, it makes ones life blissful.
- YOGA VASISHTHA
When radiance manifest Kundalini awakens, it lends brilliance to the powers of desire / wisdom / action. One can see its influence on the entire body. The latent world of Mantra gets activated. The cosmic wisdom awakens fully. Kundalini that transforms the entire world, makes a spiritual seeker extremely powerful.
- MAHAYOG VIJNAN
It is said that there are 3 powers viz. Sattvik wisdom power, Rajasik action power and Tamasik material power.
- DEVI BHAGWAT
Wisdom,desire and action are all symbols of power. They are called Mahasaraswati, Mahakali and Mahalakshmi.
Some call me the divine energy of penance. Some call me inert. Some call me knowledge, some Maya and others Mother Nature. But I am Supreme Love and Bliss.
- DEVI BHAGWAT
It is I who give the path to demi-gods and human beings, so as to achieve the desired goal. He who worships my discrimination power so as to please me, is made extremely radiant by me. I make them Brahmins, Rishis and great seeers.
- Rig Ved (10/25/5)
In spiritual terms spiritual ignorance means to be totally unaware of the divine potential within our body. When this ignorance is destroyed, we call it divine wisdom or realization of the self (soul). The highest achievement for a human being is to activate that which is inactive and to search for that which one has apparently lost. Soul based endeavour is said to be the supreme endevaour. As against this ordinary efforts can only give you transient wealth, bodily might and material pleasures. All these are fleeting and in fact as soon as you attain them, you desire more of them. But when you gain soul force you are led to higher and higher steps of divine grace. They are eternal and give total satiation. Not only does a person benefit individually but that he influences others too, to attain their spiritual goal. Thus keeping in mind all the above facts, spiritual endeavour is to said to be the supreme endeavour.
A sleeping man lies inactive and seems dead. But as soon as he awakens all his prowess too gets activated. The same holds true for the vital force energy or Kundalini. If a persons inner power is latent, know for sure that spiritually he is sleeping. When a persons inner soul awakens, one can see him act greatly in the world. One can understand the inactive and active state of the soul by comparing it to a person who is sleeping or one who is awake.
In order to awaken the sleeping Divine Serpent Power in the body, one has to take recourse to Gayatri spiritual practices. Those who take up this marathon task of awakening the Kundalini energy, attain pinnacles of material and spiritual heights.
CHAPTER 3 - THE MYTHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION OF KUNDALINI SUPER POWER
Students of Spiritual Sciences know well that this human body is merely a small sample of this gigantic cosmos. The sun moves and other planets and satellites circumambulate it. In the same way an atom does not exist alone. In fact it consists of electrons, protons, neutrons etc. These in turn are influenced by the nucleus and they carry out tasks just like the solar system does. A gigantic tree is potentially present in a tiny seed. In the same way not only the human body, but its character, intellect, psyche, important subtle consciousness etc. are present in a very subtle form in the genes of eggs and sperms. If we wish to see the gigantic nature of the cosmos in speed form, we must analyze the subtle aspects of the human body. Not only can we understand it but that we can greatly benefit from the inseparable bond between mans subtle form and cosmic greatness. If this bond is activated from its present inactive state, if it matures from its present unripe state, we can attract innumerous divine powers of the cosmos for apt benefits. Not only this, we can make more powerful our individuality, so as to influence the inert/conscious centers of this gigantic cosmos.
In reality spiritual practices and penances means the abovementioned extremely priceless method. We have read about many sages, seekers of ancient times who via austerities attained divine boons. All such incidents are found in Indian Mythology called Puranas. But today since we do not find such obvious examples, we feel that the above Puranas are merely wild imaginations. But this certainly is not true. In fact if this science is executed with a proper method and materials, even today we can witness all the abovementioned divine boons etc. which so far we have categorized as a mere figment of our imagination.
All the boons attained by men who had performed intense penance, is nothing but the capacity gained by such a person, to aptly utilize cosmic divine powers. In the same way one gets the capacity to curse or bless others by making ones body so spiritually powerful via intense austerities that as a result ones power of resolve or Sankalpa Shakti becomes extremely potent. Hence with this power of resolve one can curse or bless others even today. The demi-gods can exist in this gigantic cosmos in an all-pervasive manner. But we are connected to these demi-gods via the seeds of energy present within every human body. When we perform austerities/ spiritual practices, we are in effect activating the Seeds of energy. The cosmic demi-gods bless us by showering us with rain, summer, winter etc. and thus everyone gets equal benefits. But there are individual demi-gods present in every human body which bestow individual blessings. Via spiritual practices we make these individual demi-gods very potent. Based on our capabilities and austerities, we attain those benefits which are today called extraordinary, miraculous and divine boons.
Yogis and great men of austerities call this power that manifests extraordinary miracles, as Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power which is also said to be the substratum of life consciousness. With its grace living beings gain energy and radiance. Under ordinary circumstances a human being is as powerful as the measure of vibratory capacity of the Divine Serpent Power. This measure corresponds to the amount of joy/sorrow faced by each individual in this material world. Thus it is very obvious that Kundalini is the substratum of success and progress of mans gross life and social life.
Even the 5 types of organs of knowledge are related to this super energy, like wires of electricity. Hence despite being subtle consciousness in nature, it also manifests as the power of resolve or Sankalpa. Because it is consciousness, it can be known, because if lives, it is a living being, because it can think, it is the mind and because it can gain wisdom, it is the brain too. As the ego it is called Turyashtak yet because the substratum of various names is only one, it is called consciousness. The Mooladhar energy of this consciousness is called Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power. The seed form of the 5 sheaths of wisdom and experience, is found in Kundalini. Hence if a person awakens this Divine Serpent Power, he masters his sense organs in such a way which is comparable to a horse-rider controlling the movement of his horse with the help of reins. Once a person masters his senses, he fears none in this world. Thus a fearless person conquers the entire world.
Yogic scriptures have given prime importance to Kundalini because of its supreme might. Alongwith this many fabrications have been conjoined to it. It has been described variedly. In simple language Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power is that divine mental brilliance which is nourished by the soul consciousness and pervades every pore of our body. As a result of spiritual practices while meditating this brilliance gets focused so as to become a powerful flame and it can be seen in the middle of the eyebrows.
In order to further understand Kundalini, it is very essential to study medulla oblongata of the brain. Western scientists have merely understood that air inhaled through the nose passes through the throat and enters the lungs. This inhaled air purifies the blood of the lungs and thus the function of blood circulation in the body continues smoothly.
But great Indian Yogis by obstructing their breathing process via Pranayam, proved beyond doubt that the consciousness which holds the vital force principle is alive and for that there is no need of respiration. It is the gross part of the inhaled air that purifies our blood. Whereas its subtle part lights up the consciousness of the navel area through the medium of Ida and Pingala (subtle nerves according to Yoga Science) found at the apex of Sushumna. In the Goraksha Method (Verse 48) this process is called Mahmudra, purification of gross/subtle nerves etc. It says that under ordinary circumstances man is influenced by those type of thoughts based on which endocrine gland or sense organ the Ida and Pingala nerves are related. Under such conditions the nerves do not function independently. But when in a special manner i.e. via Pranayam the air inhaled is pushed into the lungs intensely, Ida (hot nerve) and Pingala (cold nerve) work in tandem i.e. in a balanced manner. Alongwith the progress of this state, the brilliant ball of the navel center too advances further. As a result the vital force too is activated like electrical energy. Because all nerves emanate from this region, they are all in contact with this brilliant ball. From that cosmic energy flow is imbibed, divine radiance (Ojas) by the nerves and thus the body too manifests divinity. It is seen as power in the sense organs and light in the eyes. Due to this vital force, intense energy of attraction is generated.
This energy manifests in the navel region and because the waist too is close by, that region is easily and speedily influenced. Thus it is most required that sexual energy centers be controlled aptly. While executing spiritual practices (Sadhana) greater emphasis is laid on self-control in order that Kundalini energy rises upwards in a focused manner without getting scattered here and there. This in turn augments the inner divine aura of a person.
In a gross manner Western scientists have only managed to see the muscular system. Uptil now they have failed to understand the vital force stream that influences their activities while flowing within all nerves. It is impossible to see all this with our gross physical eyes. But Indian Yogis saw all this by manifesting the subtlest form of consciousness. Great scholars while describing these 101 subtle nerves (Naadis) in Yoga Shikhopanishad have called the apex of Sushumna as Paranaadi (supreme subtle nerve). This is not a gross nerve as described by modern science but is in fact a third divine stream of energy that emanates from the balanced electrical flow of Ida and Pingala subtle nerves. Its gross form is virtually non-existent because subtly it is so widespread and gigantic that when the consciousness of a living being passes through it, it appears as though it is flowing in some gigantic galaxy of inter-stellar space. Over here one gets a glimpse of the gigantic cosmos of which our earth is a mere speck. It is impossible to understand the states of infinite suns, moons, galaxies, planets etc. of interstellar space or hearing and understanding cosmic movements as sound waves by going to the moon or sending rockets/space shuttles outside earth. If at all it is possible the only way is to dive deep within our soul. It is only Kundalini which harbours our radiant soul force in seed form that has the capacity to tie a bond with all gross/subtle materials of the cosmos and thus attain immense benefits both materially and spiritually.
The Sushumna subtle nerve (in the spinal chord) flows in the Merudand or spine region. It rises up to the 4 th ventricle of the brain i.e. in the Sahasrar Chakra (1000 petalled plexus). It enters this area in a way akin to a lotus flower that emerges from a pond and blooms forth. This Sahasrar Chakra represents the cosmos because in it lie all the glories of God (Brahman) albeit in seed form. The flame of Kundalini ultimately merges itself in this region. In this state one experiences eternal honey-like bliss or the bliss of sexual union. Thus it is said that one can attain God (Brahman or cosmic soul) with the help of Divine Serpent Power.
In this very body the importance of Kundalini is more great beyond doubt because it helps us become lords of omnipotent power. Thus we experience/realize our soul so as to attain God vision. Just as Lord Shesha is said to be the support of this world, in the same way a living being exists because of the divine energy of Kundalini. This super energy with the shape of a snake meets the Shunya Chakra of the brain in the upper region. Similarly in the lower region it is dependent on the Kundalini present in the genitals. Due to the strong influence of Prana and Apan air, it slowly becomes bigger, straighter, more powerful and mature. In the beginning stages of ones spiritual practices (Sadhana) this activity takes place slowly but when one attains the supreme goal (Sidhi) it becomes absolutely straight. When the doors of Sushumna subtle nerve opens, an intense flow of divine energy springs forth in the entire body. It can be seen especially on ones face. It is in this very human body that one can attain Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power awakening, divine wisdom, divine experiences and the infinite ocean of extraordinary bliss.
When the obstructed opening of the Sushumna subtle nerve is opened via spiritual practices, the devotee hears extremely sweet tunes. In the initial stages this sound is like the thunder of clouds, pattering of rain drops, gurgling of ocean waves, bells, cymbals, stringed musical instruments and buzzing of a bee. Later these are converted to Anahad Naad. This Naad is heard in the region that measures 4 thumbs above the navel. On hearing it ones mind is so immersed in it just like a snake who forgets everything on hearing the flute. Due to this Anahad Naad the bad psychic imprints of the devotee, that have been gathered from past millions of lives, are destroyed.
In Indian Tantra Kundalini Super Power is called a 2-faced female serpent. Its one face is in the center of the organs of excretion and reproduction i.e. in the Mooladhar Chakra. The other face is in the center of the brain i.e. in the Brahmarandhra. Great powers present in the North and South Pole of our planet Earth are continuously being exchanged from one pole to the other. Thus all the movements of earth go on aptly. In the same way a lot of give and take, takes place between the brain region and genital region of Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power. This exchange takes place in the Merudand or the spinal region. The bones of the spinal region unite these 2 poles of Kundalini. In reality the great serpentine nature of Kundalini can be seen in its snake-like body that spreads from the genitals (Mooladhar Chakra) to the brain (Brahmarandhra). Thus these 2 poles which abound with infinite energy are the 2 faces of the snake-like Kundalini.
The Merudand is hollow. Whatever is present within it has been described by modern anatomists in their own scientific way. Whatever is seen during operations and surgeries is a totally different angle. Over here we are going to discuss the divine powers that can be experienced using the extremely subtle viewpoint of Yogic scriptures. According to Yogic scriptures of India, there is a Brahma Naadi (subtle nerve) in the Merudand (subtle spine region). Within this Naadi are the Ida and Pingala subtle nerves. These should not be confused with blood carrying veins. In reality Ida and Pingala are electrical streams. Just as at the upper end of an electrical wire is fitted a rubber shell which also has within it a cold /hot wire made of zinc and copper, so too is the case with Ida and Pingala. The Brahma Naadi is like a rubber shell and within it are the 2 hot /cold wires in the form of Ida and Pingala. It does not have a gross form that can be seen by doctors, scientists in operations or by using research apparatus. This is because they are divine creations of subtle electrical flows.
In the brain area you will ordinarily see only marrow within cell walls. Although with modern microscopes you may not see anything yet that divine center overflows with extraordinary energies. The total personality of man, his very thinking, his activities and bodily /mental existence is dependent on this divine center. Ordinarily the brain of all human beings seem similar yet deep down there is a difference in the amount of earth, space etc. present in it. On this basis a man is called good or bad charactered. This very subtlety has to be applied to Kundalini. Via surgery, laboratory research etc. you can never perceive the Mooladhar Chakra, Sahasrar, Brahma Naadi, Ida, Pingala etc. All these divine creations are so subtle that they cannot be perceived by our 5 sense organs of sight, taste, smell, touch and hearing. One can only directly experience these divine centers via a very subtle mind that is attained through spiritual practices (Sadhana).
This Divine Serpent Power or Kundalini super energy of the Mooladhar Chakra dwells in the area between the excretory system doorway and the genital organs. This area measures upto 4 fingers. According to Yogic scriptures of India, one can perceive a triangular molecule in the cave of this area. Generally all the bodily units are round in shape. But since the abovementioned area is nothing but an eddy of energy, it is triangular in shape. The speed of electricity in the human body and those of machines generally becomes fast and then slows down. This cycle of fast and slow speed continues uninterrupted. But the electricity of the eddy in the triangular molecule of Mooladhar Chakra is generated like the rotational (entwining) movement of a creeper plant attached to a tree. This cycle of self-control is generally of 3 rounds. Later this electrical stream gives up this extraordinary movement and starts flowing in a normal manner.
This stream continuously flows in the Merudand (spinal cord) upto the central point of the brain called Brahmarandhra or Sahasrar Kamal (subtle 10,000 petalled lotus). Even the central atom of this energy center is different when compared to grosser bodily atoms. Because the former instead of being round, are flat in form. Their edges instead of being streamlined, are rough like the teeth of a saw. According to great Indian Yogis these teeth are totally 1000 in number. From a symbolic standpoint these teeth are compared to petals of the lotus flower. Thus it is said to be a blooming 1000 petalled lotus. And hence in Sanskrit this symbol is called the Sahasrar Kamal.
The mythological (Indian Puranas) description of this 1000 petalled lotus is very pleasing and full of deep import. It is said that Lord Vishnu lies on a 1000 headed serpent (Lord Shesha) in the Ksheersagar (ocean of milk). Lord Vishnu has 4 hands with each one carrying a conch, disc, mace and lotus flower. His consort Goddess Lakshmi massages his feet. Some attendants are guarding their abode. This Ksheersagar is nothing but the grey matter of the brain that is grayish and smooth. The 1000 hooded serpent (Lord Shesha) is the flat, rough-edged special molecule of the Brahmarandhra. This is the center of divinity that dwells in all human beings. It is the abode of Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu always sleeps, meaning if it were in an ordinary person, the unit of God is equal in form but that it is never in an awakened state. Ordinarily human beings lead lives akin to animals and are thus looked down upon. When we see such people we feel as though God does not dwell in their bodies or if God does exist, He is sleeping. But if God awakens in any human body, the stature of thinking, activities, hopes of such a person is extraordinarily high. He lives a life of divine wisdom and light. Thus not only is he himself illumined but transmits divine light to other creatures who comes in contact with him. When we do not see human glories in an individual, when he lives a downfallen life of sorrow, poverty, despair and worry, how then can we say that God dwells in such a person? As against this you cannot say that the Lord does not dwell in him. Every creature of this world is a part of God and that within them, the Lord does exist.
As an answer to the above contradiction, we can say that no doubt God dwells within all creatures yet He is sleeping. The Lord resides in an ocean of brilliant thinking (Ksheersagar). This Ksheersagar is the Lords abode. When an individuals intellect overflows with Ksheer in the form of clean, radiant activities and thoughts, know for sure that this is the Lords abode (Ksheersagar). This is the deep import or Lord Vishnu sleeping on the 1,000 hooded serpent (Lord Shesha) in the ocean of milk (Ksheersagar).
Lord Vishnus 4 hands hold 4 weapons. Conch meaning sound, power of speech and the capacity of awakening and influencing others. The disc meaning movement, activities and power of transforming circumstances. The mace meaning the power of overcoming, destroying and rectifying undesired and inappropriate conditions. The lotus flower meaning excess of good qualities like beauty, fragrance, sweetness, gentleness, magnaniminity, gentlemanliness, generosity, self-control etc. These are the 4 weapons of Lord Vishnu. The Lord always keeps these 4 special qualities with Himself. Thus if in an individual the Lord is awake, know for sure that the above 4 special qualities too will abound in such a person. Goddess Lakshmi (of wealth) is Lord Vishnus holy consort. Thus wherever the Lord dwells (i.e. He is awake) there overflows glories, divine powers, special qualities, success and good-will for all living and non-living beings. Lakshmi means divine glory or Vibhuti. She is Lord Vishnus holy consort. Great saints are masters of great divine glories. Poverty always marries those who are wicked. As against this is a gentleman who has the choice of not hoarding wealth as per his wish. We should note that despite this he never lacks anything.
The presence of Narad, Hayagreeva and other attendants are symbols of many divine powers that exist with Vishnu and Lakshmi in order to help them carry out various divine tasks. Narad symbolizes the divine wisdom and radiance of Sattvik (pure) divine powers. Hayagreeva symbolizes might, enterprise, intense effort, wealth, daring and desire based important tasks. The power of Sattva Guna (purity) and presence of Rajo Guna (activity) are always conjoined to Lakshmi and Vishnu. If anyone is a devotee of God, if he has intense faith and has realized his soul (God experience), he will experience within himself the existence of Vishnu, Lakshmi, attendants, Ksheersagar, Lord Shesha and other such divine capabilities. In such a wise and radiant intellect exist all the above special divine qualities. Such a persons character is worth imbibing by all, he is enlightened and historical because forever will such a great person be remembered all over the world. Such a persons high leveled thinking and idealistic actions will help him overcome his animal-man qualities and instead will become a Human God. Lord Vishnu who sleeps on Lord Shesha (1000 headed serpent) is compared to the Sahasrar Kamal (1000 petalled lotus) in the Brahmarandhra (center of the brain) which is the North Pole of Kundalini. The import of this symbolic legend is indeed very deep. It is said if this North Pole of Kundalini as the Sahasrar Kamal gets activated, an individual can directly experience the existence of Vishnu and his attendants. Such a person is called a Sidha/ great saint and lives a divinely exalted life.
Alongwith the South Pole of Kundalini i.e. the Mooladhar Chakra is conjoined the legend of churning the ocean (Samudra Manthan). It describes that once the demi-gods and demons got together to churn the ocean. As a result they came across priceless jewels. It is very clear that the author of this mythological tale has laid emphasis on the greatness of the Divine Serpent Power i.e. Kundalini Shakti.
There are 2 categories called demi-gods and demons. They differ in their inner nature. Because their mothers are Diti and Aditi, they have such differences yet because their father Kashyap Rishi is one, they have a common lineage. Thus the demi-gods and demons complement each other. The preceptor of demi-gods called Brihaspati and preceptor of demons called Shukracharya were themselves demi-gods. Their capabilities, austerities and far-sightedness were extraordinary. No doubt their methods differed a bit yet both were thought to be extremely important. The preceptor of demi-gods, Brihaspati, was a follower of the path of divine wisdom (Jnana-Marg). His sect gave importance to Yoga and his followers were called Dakshin devotees. The preceptor of demons, Shukracharya, was a follower of the path of secret sciences. His sect gave importance to Tantra philosophy and his followers were called Vaam devotees. Both Aagam-Nigam and Ved-Tantras are important in their own way. Divine wisdom and actions complement one another. The existing principles of demi-gods and demons complement one another. But when on leaving the path of cooperation they attacked each other with prejudiced minds, the era of bragging and intense prejudice commenced. Thus the demi-gods and demons started fighting with one another. There are many stories of the battles between demi-gods and demons when one reads the Puranas (Indian Myhtology) yet there is not a total lack of tasks which both these parties undertook with a spirit of cooperation. The ocean was churned (Samudra Manthan) by both parties. When Prajapati realized that both the parties were becoming weak due to constant fighting, he advised them to cooperate with one another and work in tandem. Both parties accepted this advice and got ready to churn the ocean. This cooperation between demi-gods and demons is nothing but the coordination between divine wisdom and actions. Vishnu symbolizes divine wisdom and Shiva as actions. Demi-gods worship Vishnu and demons worship Shiva. This fact is very clear in the detailed science of Kundalini super energy.
Lord Vishnu who sleeps on the 1000 hooded serpent, Lord Shesha, dwells in the Sahasrar Kamal situated in the central region of the brain. The Lord of Mooladhar Chakra in the genital area in Shiva. There is a well-known story of Lord Shiva wherein Kaamdeva (God of sexual passion) incites Lord Shiva, who in turn opens his third eye so as to burn Kaamdeva to ashes. Because Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power lies close to the genital organs, it influences that region. Great sages control this frittering away of energy by opening the eye of divine wisdom (third eye of Lord Shiva). With reference to this there is one more mythological tale in the Indian Puranas wherein because Shiva was prone to lust, Vishnu cut Shivas genital organ into 18 pieces. These 18 pieces fell in 18 places and thus in those areas manifested a Jyotir-Linga. Twelve Jyotir-Lingas manifested in this manner. Sexual lust can be converted into divine light. This is the deep import of the above tale.
The main ornament of Lord Shiva is a snake and generally all his images / photographs are seen with a snake coiled around his neck with 3 1/2 rounds. In the image worship of Shivlingas, it is the genitals of males and females that have been reinstated. In the images of Shivas temples, the conjoined form of the male and female genitals are reinstated and cold water is poured over this Shivalinga so as to make it serene. Meaning although generally these genitals are looked down upon yet in reality there is no need to detest them. In fact within it are the seeds of extraordinary glory. Symbolically the snake lies between the Jalhari(water-pot with a hole at the base) situated at the top and Shivalinga (stone image) below. This symbolizes that the powerful Lord Shiva is the master of Kundalini. This should be looked upon as Kailash mountain and Manasarovar which is the abode of Lord Shiva and never as mere genital organs which are generally denounced by one and all. In fact by respecting its sacredness and importance, one should always yearn to utilize them aptly. One should not merely render listless the reproduction centers via creative activities like drawing, artistic skills, effort, endeavour and sentiments. Instead one should use Shivas divine energy (Shakti) present in the Mooladhar Chakra situated near the genital organs for higher sacred purposed. This message of Indian Spiritual Science is extremely important for world humanity. It is this very fact that emerges from images of Shiva-Lingas.
In Krishnas Raasleela (sacred dance) wherein he danced with the Gopis (cowherd maidens) to the tune of flutes and Anahad Naad, there is a symbolic suggestion of immersing, tuning and inducing joy in all the sentiments of our inner nature. The symbolic suggestion behind Lord Krishna running away with the clothes of the bathing Gopis so as to render them naked, is to remove the veil that hides our secret power which so far has been maligned and detested. All such acts of Lord Krishna which to the superficial eye seem lowly, are in fact very spiritual and full of deep imports. The Bhairvai Chakra spiritual method of Tantra science is thought to be anti-social and lewd. Hence it is not discussed and is kept as a secret. In order to activate Shri Ramkrishna Paramhansas extraordinary divine powers, his Tantra preceptor called Mahayogini convinced him to undergo the Kumari Pooja (worship of virgin girls) spiritual practice. Paramhansas holy consort Sharada-devi with great difficulty have up her shyness so as to help him in these so called lewd actions. In spirituality the scriptures of sex (Kaam Shastra) are also given importance. Accordingly Kunti gave birth to Karna blessed by Surya, Arjun blessed by Indra, Yudhishthira blessed by Dharmaraj and Bheema blessed by Varun. The point to note here is that although Kunti was a virgin she gave birth to all these sons by invoking divine powers. Anjanis son Hanuman was fathered by Maruta, hence the former is also called Maruti. Of course this scripture is based on a detailed scientific principle but because it can be discussed only with those who have apt credentials, we feel it is not correct to publicly describe all this. Thus many aspects of Tantra Science have been kept a secret. These secrets are only divulged to people with capacity to digest them and one is thus protected safely.
In Lord Krishnas biography there is famous incident wherein the serpent Kaaliya was defeated in a duel. Further the 2 wives of Kaaliya gave gifts to Lord Krishna and prayed for his blessings. Lord Krishna is an incarnation of Vishnu. It is the latter who controls an unruly super serpent. The human mind is a super serpent. When it becomes unruly it spits venom and thus heads towards a massive downfall. But if the human mind is mastered, its 2 wives Ridhi and Sidhi come with innumerable gifts of divine glories along with a prayerful attitude. There is a famous story about Lord Shesha (Serpent) bearing the burden of earth on his head. The abovementioned Super Serpent is the substratum that bears the burden of our life. All the flames of Prana (vital force) are hidden in its deep recesses. It is the Lord of the great vital force.
In the episode of churning of the ocean, we have discussed demi-gods and demons in the above paragraphs. The cooperation between demi-gods and demons is nothing but the confluence of divine wisdom and actions. The Sumeru mountain is this triangular molecule which is the reason behind the creation of the Mooladhar Chakra (plexus). It is well-known that demi-gods lived on the Sumeru mountain made of gold. It is beyond doubt that this Sumeru mountain was filled with extraordinary divine powers alongwith wealth of gold. The ocean was churned by using Sumeru mountain as the churning rod and Lord Shesha (serpent) as a rope. This serpent rope overflows with electrical streams belonging to Ida and Pingala of the Brahma Naadi (divine subtle nerve). When divine wisdom and actions that are symbols of Shiva (demon) and Vishnu (demi-gods) churn the ocean, which again is a symbol of the intense spiritual practice of awakening the Divine Serpent Power or Kundalini Shakti, it was Prajapati Brahmaa (creator of the world) who became a gigantic tortoise called Lord Kurma to take the burden of the churning rod (Sumeru mountain) on his back. Lord Kurma incarnated so that the Sumeru mountain did not get submerged in the ocean. If this did happen the demi-gods and demons would not have succeeded in churning the ocean. Thus Lord Kurma took the burden of the enormous Sumeru mountain on his back. It is the Lord Almighty who takes up all the responsibilities of spiritual seekers. Thus one marches ahead on the path of success based on ones effort and faith. It was not as though the 14 jewels (mentioned above) had manifested in the very first attempt / leg of ocean churning. Both parties had to make tremendous, uninterrupted effort to churn the ocean. Spiritual seekers who want to reach the goal in a very short time, do not succeed in doing so. Only those seekers who are extremely patient, steadfast and have firm faith in God succeed in their spiritual endeavour.
As a result of churning of the ocean, 14 jewels manifested. They are called 1) Lakshmi 2) Kaustubh jewel 3) Parijat flower 4) Varuni 5) Dhanvantari 6) Moon 7 )Kamadhenu cow 8) Airavat elephant 9 ) Rambha dancer 10) Uchaishrava horse 11) Nectar 12 )Bow 13) Conch 14) Poison. According to this tale of Indian Puranas majority of the jewels were handed over to the demi-gods. This is because only pious beings can make apt use of divine powers / glories on the basis of their pure character. Thus such people benefit both materially and spiritually. On the other hand vile men lose all that they attain and as per the laws of nature they remain empty-handed.
Lakshmi means all-round wealth. Kaustubh Mani (jewel) i.e. Paras turns anything that comes in contact with it into something very priceless. Parijat flowers meaning tenderness, beauty, fragrance and joy akin to a blooming flower. Varuni means zeal for imbibing sacred ideals. Dhanvantari meaning a long, healthy life. Moon meaning peace and coolness. Kamadhenu cow meaning intense effort that destroys vile desires and fulfils sacred desires. Airavat elephant meaning might accompanied by patience and power of discrimination. Rambha dancer meaning artistic skills, sacred sentiments and an eye for true beauty. Uchaishrava horse meaning extraordinary daring and enterprise. Nectar meaning self-knowledge, and experiencing nature of the soul which is the ultimate goal of all human lives. Bow meaning attainment of required means. Conch meaning radiant speech that influences others positively. Alongwith these 13 jewels or divine powers is conjoined a great danger. Suppose a person who attains the above 13 jewels becomes arrogant and misuses these divine skills, these 13 jewels can create venom-like perilous results for oneself and others.
Ferocious demons like Ravan, Kumbhkarna, Meghnad, Hiranyakashipu, Bhasmasura, Vritrasura etc. had attained many boons and powers as a result of performing intense austerities. But because their psyche was vile and their attitude was extremely arrogant, whatever was attained was not lost and instead got converted into poison which paved the way for their downfall. The 14 th jewel of ocean churning is poison too. This venom can be digested only by a true devotee of Lord Shiva. It was Lord Shiva who retained this poison, which was a result of churning of the ocean in his throat in order that the whole world be saved from mass destruction. This world of ours has many flaws. These flaws should not be allowed to enter our stomachs and nor should they be expressed externally in the form of insulting others etc. Wherever reforms are possible one should make appropriate efforts to do so. Else one should neither eat undesirable stuff nor swallow it. Instead retain it in your throat region, as was shown to us by Lord Shiva. All spiritual seekers should do exactly this. Whenever one attains divine powers one should be alert every moment and see to it that they are not misused. Else they will work as poison in our lives.
Kundalini awakening is like the churning of the ocean. Every spiritual seeker can attain the above 14 jewels. All that one sees in the external world is present subtly in the North and South Poles of Kundalini present in the human body. Kundalini awakening is that key which opens the vault of jewels present in Sahasrar (North Pole) and Mooladhar (South Pole). Those who have this necessary spiritual daring will become the worlds most fortunate human being.
CHAPTER 4 - THE CHAKRA CENTRES AND CAPACITY OF ACTIVATING THEM
In ancient times researchers of soul sciences very intricately discovered conscious principles of the subtle world. In this very human body (microcosm) they found the mirror-image of the material world (macrocosm). Whatever one perceives in the gross world is present in the human body in a subtle form. Hence instead of carrying out research studies pertaining to the external world with the help of very expensive scientific technical apparatus, the ancient seers / sages looked upon the human body as a reflection of the gigantic cosmos and hence conducted research studies by diving deep into their souls within the body.
These ancient seers and Yogis while conducting research in the field of soul sciences concluded that amongst all spiritual practices (Sadhanas), activation of Kundalini Mahashakti or Divine Serpent Power is most important. After understanding the nature of the Divine Serpent Power alongwith its apt utility power, it was noted that Kundalini controls 2 main centers within the human body. These 2 centres are powerful as the 2 poles of the planet earth viz. the North Pole and the South Pole. Kundalini activation involves mastering of these 2 centres / poles in the human body. This spiritual practice involves many small / big experiments and their results. There are certain very easy experiments which when executed can make a person radiant, brilliant and positively active. There are other difficult and high leveled experiments pertaining to Kundalini activation. Such methods make the inner soul of a person so all-pervasive that he can contact all the divine powers of this gigantic cosmos. This cosmos overflows with extraordinary powers but laymen do not have the capacity to understand and utilize them for material and spiritual progress. But when a person via Kundalini activation comes in contact with all these cosmic powers, he can make use of all of them as per his requirements. Apart from this such an exalted soul can influence the entire cosmos so as to benefit the world both materially and spiritually.
A medium activation of Divine Serpent Power produces a lightning-like electrical flow in the human body. I have personally known a Sidha (realized saint / sage) whose body was filled with material electricity continuously. No one could touch him. If anyone dared touch him, he would experience an electric shock that one gets by touching naked wires. This realized saint always kept his eyes drooping. This was because if anyone made eye-contact with this realized saint, he would become unconscious. Once this realized saint stared at a piece of glass and instantly the glass piece cracked into tiny pieces. This was the result of contact with the bodily electricity of that realized saint. When this electrical flow touches the psyche, one overcomes all limitations of the mind. When Valmiki contacted this divine mind of Narad and Angulimal, that of Lord Budha, both ferocious dacoits surrendered unconditionally at Narads and Lord Budhas feet. As a result they gave up their vile activities and instead lived lives of sages. Yogic spiritual practices can cerate infinite power in the gross, subtle and causal bodies of the body, mind and soul respectively. It goes without saying that Kundalini activation is the most important aspect of Yogic spiritual practices. Even if one performs preliminary practices, ones worldly life becomes radiant and glorious. It is difficult to describe the miraculous heights one reaches when higher levels of Yogic practices are imbibed.
From a gross standpoint the human body is a living and thinking mass of flesh. Its activities revolve around nourishing the body and procreation. The mind is immersed in greed, attachment and ego based thoughts. A living being immersed in satisfying desires, sometimes tastes joy and at other times despair. Thus he lugs the burden of life only to enter the jaws of death. One sometimes gets sense pleasures and at other times loses all of them. One keeps building and breaking contacts with other creatures of the world. There is no beginning nor an end to the vicious circle of hope and despair. A living being like wet mud revolves around the wheel of a potter. Over here he loses or transforms his very existence. Man is very much a part of the cycle of creation, propagation and destruction of the world. Like all material objects man too undergoes this cycle.
The chemical analysis of the physical human body is very lowly and valueless. The market value of these chemicals is even less than animals, birds etc. sold in markets. If we try and sell mans blood, flesh, bones etc. in the market we will get a price less than that obtained by selling a living hen. Despite this man is considered the glorious peak of creation. This is because of consciousness dwelling in his body. This conscious energy can be seen as zest, might and beauty in the human body. The subtle body oozes with wisdom oriented glory, intellectual radiance and an enterprising mind. The ultimate casual body overflows with divine glories like faith, hope, love, service, generosity, compassion etc.
This conscious energy of all the 3 bodies viz. physical, subtle, causal is said to be more potent than all the intense energy vibrations of heat, sound, electricity, ether etc. of inter-stellar space put together. The ratio difference between material energy and spiritual energy is equivalent to the material potency measured by modern scientific apparatus and the soul power experienced by great Yogis within their bodies. We hear amazing talks regarding lasers, death rays, atomic energy etc. As against this if we deeply understand the creative potential of soul force, we will realize that it is impossible to measure it.
A very infinitesimal unit of the human body called the sperm has the capacity to produce a new human body. The atom is compared to the solar system. The microcosm (human body) is said to be the representative of the macrocosm (cosmos). This is not only a fact but is an abject reality. Under such circumstances mans very existence can be compared to that spark of fire which in its seed form has the capacity to burn up a gigantic forest. A seed has the potential to grow into a gigantic tree if it comes across conducive circumstances. In its true form it can generate innumerable other seeds.
There exist bipartite applications of divine energy. When it is purified thoroughly man becomes a saint, demi-god or God Himself. He thus accesses all the divine powers of such divine beings. If this very divine power is used for material progress, a person becomes very brilliant. He reaches the peaks of progress and carries out gigantic tasks which were previously impossible to execute. Thus every step of his is akin to victory. The bright pages of history radiate further due to the glory attained by such radiant, skilful and bright individuals. These eulogies pertaining to such divine men are not because of their attainments in the external world, but are based on the radiant conscious energy within their psyche.
The science of advancing ones conscious energy encompasses Yogic practices and austerities. Within the visible gross body lie 2 bodies called subtle and causal bodies and they cannot be seen by the human eye. The aim of Yogic or any other spiritual practice (Sadhana) is to make conscious, this unconscious subtle body. This will induce awareness / consciousness in the individual. One will overcome Maya (power of illusion) and become divine as a result of purification of the psyche. It is believed that when devotees, Yogi, men of austerities etc. attain Ridhi-Sidhis (divine weapons), it is the result of blessings from demi-gods, ghosts, demons etc. But the reality is that whatever is labeled as amazing, extraordinary or extrasensory is nothing but manifestations from within our soul. Purification of the mind / psyche is called God-realization or salvation. If we do understand this precept clearly, we will be called true knowers of truth.
Soul based practices have many applications. Innumerous methods and paths have been laid down by many schools of thought. Within Indian Sciences of Spiritual Practices, 84 Yogas (union with God) are most important. Their branches and sub-branches could add upto a few thousand in number. Hence it is even more tedious to keep count of well-known spiritual practices of other areas of this world. In Yoga practices, the path of Chakra activation is such that all over the world it has been widely accepted. Despite there being difference of opinion regarding the mode and nature of Chakra activation, people unanimously accept its existence and positive influence. Time and again activation of Kundalini Shakti i.e. Divine Serpent Power has been discussed within the arena of spiritual practices. This is the ultimate stage of success attained due to Chakra activation. We are all aware of the electrical energy that flows in the nerves of the human body. Telephone wires can only work if they are connected with electricity. It is the miracle of this very electricity that results in sensations perceived by our sense organs (eyes, ears etc.) and all ideas and sentiments in our brain. Layers of storms that manifest electromagnetic waves, arise in our body and thus our moods experience joy or despair. Ones life is directed due to this sort of an influence. Great Yogis have always endeavoured to understand this divine conscious flow so that we can make apt use of it to augment our material and spiritual progress.
Research studies on conscious energy reveal that the Sahasrar Chakra (subtle 1000 petalled plexus) present in the center of the brain, is akin to the North Pole of planet earth and the South Pole is the genital region at the base of the spine which is where one finds the Mooladhar Chakra (subtle plexus). These are the 2 bodily centers that are the medium of give and take with cosmic consciousness (God) and an individual contacting the latter. The divine energy within them is the axis of lifes very existence. The center of intellect and faith is above and the center of joy and might is below. The genitals are not meant merely for experiencing joy during sexual intercourse and producing children, because at the root of our genital organs lie artistic skills, daring, zest etc. These are said to be the basis of material progress. When a person loses this energy, he is denounced as a eunuch. Over here intense effort is described and not the act of sexual intercourse. The Mooladhar Chakra is the center of material powers.
The Sahasrar center of the brain is the root source of wisdom, intellect and other spiritual qualities. Spiritual practices like Pratyahar (cutting off the contact between sense organs and their objects for e.g. nose stops smelling things), Dharana (one-pointed focus of the mind), Dhyan (meditation on a single thought wave), Samadhi (trance or Superconscious State) are carried out in the brain region. A chain joins the Mooladhar which is a center of material powers and Sahasrar which is a source of spiritual powers. This chain is ordinarily called Merudand and in spiritual terms it is called Sushumna (subtle spine-according to Indian Yoga). What is the importance of the spinal cord? The answer is well-known amongst experts of anatomy. Alongwith the electrical stream within the spinal cord, are conjoined high leveled divine glories. A realized saint or one who has experienced the cosmic soul (God) truly knows all this. In this center flow intense electrical streams with great speed. It has 2 forms i.e. negative and positive. Ida nerve (subtle) is negative and Pingala nerve (subtle) is positive. When both these subtle nerves unite, we experience an energy flow which is called Sushumna (subtle spinal nerve). It can also be called Naadi. Naadi is either a nerve or a blood vessel like arteries and veins. Over here it means a subtle nerve and not a blood vessel. In this Sushumna there are 2 electrical streams. Suppose a great surgeon opens up the spinal cord to see the Ida, Pingala and Sushumna, please note that he will see nothing of this sort. This is because the Ida, Pingala and Sushumna described in Indian Yogic scriptures are very subtle in nature. Thus no modern, material apparatus can prove its existence. These subtle nerves can only be experienced by an individual who has purified his mind so as to make it very subtle and focused. Very briefly these are 2 types of energy centers. One is in the brain (spiritual) and the other near the genitals (material). The electrical streams flowing in the Ida, Pingala and Sushumna subtle nerves are like a bridge that joins these 2 energy centers. Symbolically Ida, Pingala and Sushumna are compared to rivers Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. It is called Triveni or 3-fold union.
When a river flows very speedily it tends to create eddies. When the atmospheric wind is hot and speedy, one experiences cyclones in the summer season. Just like eddies in a river and cyclones in wind, the conscious energy flowing in the Sushumna is said to be merely an intense stream of electricity. It is called an energy wheel. In Yogic scriptures it is said that there are 6 such energy wheels.
In Indian mythology called Puranas the symbol of effort and son of Shakti (divine energy) is said to be Kartikeya Skand. He is Parvatis son, yet according to Shiva Purana it was Kritikas (Pleide Stars) who reared him. Agni (fire) retained Kartikeya in its womb. Shivas Retas (sperm) manifested as fire and Vaishwanar (bodily hunger fire) in the form of a female, imbibed this Retas in her womb and nourished it. Yatudhanas, symbols of innumerous obstacles, had rendered the life of demi-gods full of distress. These Yatudhanas were defeated by Kartikeya Skand. This son of Shakti had 6 faces.
This incarnation of Skand should be understood as the description of the influence of the 6 Chakras related to Kundalini super energy. Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power is nothing but the substratum fire present in the root of our genitals. When Shiva in the form of Sahasrar is activated, it manifests honey-like pollen and this is Shivas Retas. Kundalini as the substratum fire held this Retas. The 6 Kritikas (Pleide Stars) nourished this Retas. These 6 Kritikas are the 6 Chakras. Thus this union of Shvia and Shakti (Kundalini) results in the manifestation of the great warrior Skand. Skand has 6 faces. Kartikeya whose 6 faces are nourished by the 6 Kritikas, should be looked upon symbolically as the influence of the 6 Chakras (plexuses).
The 6 Chakras are situated one after another in a vertical manner on the Merudand and the first one is situated in the genitals at the base called the Mooladhar Chakra. The last one called Sahasrar is situated at the top, in the central region of the brain called Brahmarandhra. This can be called a special powerhouse or microwave station. Above Mooladhar lies the Svaddhishthan Chakra in the navel region. After that comes the Manipur Chakra between the navel and heart region. Anahat Chakra is found in the heart region. Vishudha Chakra is found in the throat region. The Ajna Chakra is found in the center of the eyebrow. Finally the Sahasrar is situated in the center of the brain region called Brahmarandhra. Thus if you include Sahasrar Chakra there are 7 Chakras (plexuses). These Chakras are described on the basis of the demi-god, vehicle, colour etc. of that region. This is so that when a spiritual seeker activates these Chakras, he can guage which stage he has reached and how far has he progressed.
What are the 6 Chakras? Where are they situated? What is their state? What is their utility? One should understand the preliminary answers to the above questions. The application of its utility and teaching varies and a spiritual seeker is given that teaching which is conducive to his mental state. The Merudand ends at the root of genital organs. Between these two there is a hollow space which is called Yoni Kand in spiritual terms. According to modern anatomists, the Sushumna nerve is merely a network. But according to subtle body scientists there lies a special bodily part in this region which is called the Mooladhar Chakra. Below this a is a back akin to that of a tortoise. Hence it is called Kurma. Above it is the Merudand and is called Sumeru. Surrounding it is an energy principle lying coiled with 3 1/2 rounds. This is the Mooladhar Chakra. This can be explained as a ball or Kand situated in a pyre or cave. This is the first Chakra. This is the root area of Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power. Although the fire in a stove is extinguished when no more fuel is added to it, yet one can experience some amount of heat in its vicinity. Ordinarily this is the state of laymen. With effort when one adds the fuel of Prana (vital force), the fire manifests. Its flame travels upwards.
Everyone knows about the 6 Chakras. In reality they are 7 in number. The seventh Chakra is Sahasrar and is generally not counted because it is the leader of all subordinate Chakras. Thus the 7 energy Chakras (plexuses) are symbols of 7 Lokas (worlds), 7 Rishis, 7 seers and 7 continents.
A description of energies and forms associated with each Chakra can be found in many scriptures pertaining to spiritual practices. No doubt some differences are there yet briefly following is the information commonly given by all
- MOOLADHAR Earth element, yellow colour, smell Tanmatra, sound Lum, Bhu Loka, situated in the center of the opening of excretory organs.
- SVADHISHTHAN Water element, white colour, taste Tanmatra, sound Vum, Bhuvaha Loka, situated below the navel.
- MANIPUR Fire element, colour red, sound Rum, Svaha Loka, form/ sight Tanmatra, situated near the navel region.
- ANAHAT Wind element, grey colour, sound Yum, touch Tanmatra, Maha Loka.
- VISHUDHI Space element, colour sky blue, sound Tanmatra, Jana Loka, Sound Eem, situated near the throat.
- AJNA Tapa Loka, Sound Om, colour white, situated between the eye brows.
- SAHASRAR Satya Loka, shape of a 1000 petalled blooming lotus, golden colour situated at the center of the brain called Reticular Activating System.
With which material centers, energies etc. can the energy sources of these 7 Chakras be compared? As an answer a comparitive symbolic description is given in various spiritual practice based texts is given as follows
All the pilgrim spots of earth dwell in the Mooladhar Chakra. One who bathes in this region attains Moksha or salvation.
- MAHAYOG VIJNAN
The heavenly pilgrim spot is situated in the Svadhishthan Chakra. Great Yogis bathe in the divine Ganges river flowing in this region. The Manipur Chakra is a divine pilgrim center and there are 5 ponds in it. Over there is the pilgrim spot of desires. All the contemporary pilgrim centers of the solar system are present in the Anahat Chakra. Those who bathe in these centers attain credentials so as to enter higher sacred Lokas (worlds).
- MAHAYOG VIJNAN
The Mooladahr Chakra is Bhuloka, Svadhishthan Chakra is Bhuvaloka, Manipur Chakra is Mahaloka, Vishudhi Chakra is Janaloka, Ajna Chakra is Tapaloka and Sahasrar Chakra is Satyalokaa. Thus at the region below there are 7 nether worlds (Patalaloka). The base of the feet is Talaloka, the upper half of the feet is Talatalaloka, the center of the ankle bone is Mahatalaloka, the upper part of the ankle bone is Rasatala, the center of the thighs is Vitalaloka and the center of the groin is Patalaloka. Thus below the waist are 7 worlds and above the waist are 7 worlds. These add upto totally 14 worlds (Lokas) in our body. He who visualizes these worlds in his body via spiritual practice, overcomes all pain and strife.
- MAHAYOG VIJNAN
In this body the 7 continents, all rivers, ocean, mountains, regions, doorkeepers of regions, Rishi-Munis, galaxies, planets, altars, demi-gods of altars, Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh, sun, moon, space, wind, fire, water, earth, all creatures and whatever else present in this world are attached to this Sumeru (situated in the Divine Serpent Power or Merudand) and they all carry out their respective functions. He who knows this is a true Yogi.
- MAHAYOG VIJNAN
From the above proclamation it is very clear that the human body is not merely a mass of 70 constituents (e.g. blood, flesh etc.) or biochemicals (e.g. fat, carbohydrates etc.). It is made up of not only 1) juices 2) blood 3) flesh4) muscle 5) bones 6) fat 7) sperm but that deep within, lies a divine principle. All the above 7 constituents are influenced by the 7 Chakras and our body unknowingly remains healthy or unhealthy due to this influence. If the state of the secret inner recesses of the soul related to the 7 Chakras remain balanced, it can give us a healthy, long life span. Thus a healthy, long life span is not just dependent on proper food intake and exercises. It is a fact that despite eating proper food and exercising regularly, if our inner secret regions are not balanced, it will make our body unhealthy and can lead to premature death too. The same holds true for our mental center. These 7 Chakras influence various levels of consciousness and the annihilation of the conscious and unconscious mind, can be converted to upliftment of pure consciousness (soul). Spiritual practice based scriptures speak of attainment of Ridhi-Sidhis i.e. divine glories. But one can attain even greater benefits both materially and spiritually if one makes apt use of the storehouse of infinite energy present in our inner soul via scientific spiritual practices.
Life is a Yajna (sacred sacrifice). It is not merely as though offering worship materials to sacred fire is called Yajna. According to the level of the micro body and macro cosmos many small / big subtle Yajnas take place. The 7 Chakras are 7 sacrificial pyres of Yajnas. In the Yajna of Sadhana (spiritual practices) you have 7 fires, Purhoit of 7 Rishis, 7 demi-gods invoked, 7 Charas and the 7 results. This Yajna is executed via activation of the 7 Chakras within the jurisdiction of Kundalini Science.
The 7 Pranas (vital force) were produced from it. The 7 flames of fire, 7 types of wood, 7 Yajnas and 7 Lokas manifested from God.
-MUNDAKOPANISHAD (2/1/8)
You are present in the 7 worlds (Lokas) as 7 divine energies and you control all of them. 1. In Bhulok as earth 2. In Bhuvaloka as wind 3. In Savahaloka as ball of light 4. In Mahahaloka as great attainment (Sidhi) 5. In Janahaloka as procreation power 6. In Tapahaloka as skill of austerities 7. In Satyaloka as truthful speech.
-DEVI BHAGWAT
Within our body there are so many sources of energy akin to these 7 Chakras (subtle plexuses). They are called glands. In the brain lies the Vishnu gland, in the heart is the Brahma gland and in the navel, the Rudra gland. Even regarding this there are difference of opinions because some opine that the Vishnu gland is in the brain. But we must not get entangled with these names. Instead we should understand that not only in the Merudand (spine) but in the head, heart and navel region there are so many important energy centers (Chakras) which when activated via various methods are called Granthibheda. Over here one more thing has to be noted that Vedham means opening in common terms. Yet spiritually it means activation or awakening.
Just like the 6 Chakras in the Sushumna subtle nervous center situated in the back of our body, there are 6 other Chakras in the front side of the body. They are called Surya(Sun) Chakra, Agni (Fire) Chakra, Amrit (nectar of immortality) Chakra, Prabhanjan (destruction) Chakra, Tadit (lightning) Chakra and Soma (moon) Chakra.
When mountain water gets concentrated in a particular area and springs forth, it is called a spring. In the mouth source of the spring, the water speed is extremely ferocious. W hen this water rises up and falls down a lot of chaos is witnessed and everyone knows how noisy the situation is. In the same way Chakras can be compared to eddies, cyclones and a spring of water. A volcano generally emits fire, smoke, lave from its opening. In the same way Chakras too release certain emissions. People are getting ready to generate infinite electrical energy from the tumultuous waves of the ocean. Those who have the capacity to utilize the energy released by these Chakras are said to be divine men.
Endocrinologists who study various endocrine glands of the body are absolutely amazed to note that the juices secreted by the glands are so infinitesimal in terms of quantity yet they can influence our body, brain etc. on such an enormous scale. Testicles, kidneys, heart, male endocrine glands etc. can be called bigger glands. Since their activities are more gross they can be easily understood. But to unfold the mysteries of the endocrine glands is that much more difficult. Even after intricate research it is difficult to draw apt conclusions. Subtler that these are glands called Chakras (in Indian Yoga) which are beyond the ken and reach of sense organs and modern scientific apparatus like election microscopes etc. If at all one can see, understand and make apt use of these Chakras, it is only via an activated inner eye of wisdom. It is only on the basis of subtle Spiritual Sciences like Yoga etc. can one experience and utilize these Chakras for ones own self and world humanity.
Within Hathayoga spiritual practices, 6 Chakras have been listed situated in the Sushumna of the Merudand (Subtle spinal chord). They are 1) Mooladhar Chakra 2) Svadhishthan Chakra 3) Manipur Chakra 4) Anahat Chakra 5) Vishudh Chakra 6 ) Ajna Chakra.
Amongst these, 4 of them have been deemed as nervous network by anatomists. The Mooladhar Chakra is called Pelvic Plexus. The Manipur Chakra is called Solar Plexus. The Anahat Plexus is called Cardial Plexus and the Vishudhi Chakra is called Pharyngeal Plexus by modern anatomists. Regarding the remaining 2 Chakras i.e. Svadhishthan and Ajna, there is a bit of disparity and difference of opinion between ancient spiritual seers and modern day research. We sincerely hope that this mystery will unfold in the near future.
There is a detailed description of the 6 fold wealth which one attains on activating the 6 Chakras. These can be called spiritual attainments too.
The 6-fold wealth is 1) Shama 2) Dama 3) Uparati 4) Titiksha 5) Shraddha and 6) Samadhan.
Shama means overcoming mental turmoil and agitation. Dama means mastering the 5 sense organs (eyes, ears etc.). Uparati means abhorring wickedness. Titiksha means enduring hardships with great patience. Shradha encompasses steadfastness on the path of sacredness alongwith faith and love for it. Samadhan means liberation from doubts and desires.
All these are specialties of qualities, action and character. Man rises high up the ladder of life due to great thinking and idealistic actions. Thus he attains inner contentment, zeal, respect from the external world and cooperation that a realized saint or sage attains.
Apart from this there are so many material benefits due to spiritual progress. These are called Sidhis. Soul based successes are called wealth and glories. Material progress is called high standard of living and Sidhi. Both these together can be seen as advancement of Extra Sensory Potential (ESP).
Shri Adi Shankaracharya has enumerated 8 Sidhis. 1 Sidhi of birth 2. Sidhi of knowledge of sound 3. Sidhi of knowledge of scriptures 4. Sidhi of enduring natural calamities. 5. Sidhi of enduring bodily / mental anguish. 6. Sidhi of enduring hardships meted out to us by other creatures of the world. 7. Sidhi of attaining wisdom 8. Sidhi of attaining knowledge
- Sanma Sidhi means to know ones past lives. One is naturally attracted to relatives of past lives and one knows that they are relatives of past lives.
- Shabda Sidhi meaning knowing the underlying meaning of a word. Words by themselves have less energy and one can twist their meanings as per ones whims and fancies. Only when a persons psyche is pure can he realize the true underlying meaning of a word.
- Shastra Sidhi means understanding the true underlying meaning of scriptures and to understand in which context (country, era, character) these observations were made. No tenet or precept can be cosmic or meant for all times. How does one utilize the scriptural truth? This very subtle knowledge is Sidhi of words /sound.
- Sidhi of enduring Adhidaivic agitations means steadfastly enduring pain due to natural calamities, accidental hardships, situations of separation from ones beloved ones etc.
- Sidhi of enduring Adhymatic heat means control of emotions like sexual desires, anger, greed, delusion, envy, arrogance etc. Not to allow ones sense organs to cross the limits of sense enjoyment and obstructing the mind from becoming unruly. When due to this sort of control ones mind harbours discontent one should smilingly ignore it.
- Sidhi of enduring Adhibhautik heat means to serenely endure hardships pertaining to the body like heat, cold, hunger, thirst, sleep, diseases etc. and disallow the mind from getting agitated.
- Sidhi of Vijnan Shakti means a pious psyche, pure character, equanimous mind, serene nature, one with a dash of humor,a hardworking person, follower of all rules, disciplined, alert, performer of righteous duties, generous nature and contentment.
- Sidhi of Vidya Shakti means steadfastness in emotions and faith with reference to the nature, aim, duty of the soul. One has firm faith in God and knowing that ones soul pervades every atom of the cosmos, one thinks everyone to be ones very own beloved. Such a person oozes with love for the world since he has overcome all agitations and the rush of blood nature of the mind.
In very exceptional cases one sometimes hears or sees Sidhis like 1.Anima 2. Mahima 3. Garima 4. Laghima 5. Prapti 6. Prakamya 7. Ishatva 8. Vashitva.
Anima means to make the body subtler than an atom. Mahima means to make oneself extremely gigantic. Garima means to make oneself very heavy. Laghima means to make oneself very light. Prapti means to experience far off objects very closely. Prakamya means to fulfill ones wishes. Ishatva means lordship or to control other objects or circumstances. Vashitva means to induce other creatures to act according to ones own wishes by controlling their thoughts.
There is another description of 8 Sidhis viz. 1. Entering another persons body. 2. Walking on water 3. Exaltation 4. Waking in fire. 5. Flying in air 6. Hearing of divine sounds 7. Overcoming the veil of light. 8. Mastering all elements.
The above mentioned miracles / Sidhis are generally not seen in todays modern times. And wherever these are seen, the measure of fraud is much more. Thus instead of talking about such miracles which we rarely see, we should clearly understand that by activating our Chakras (Plexuses), we can advance both materially and spiritually. We can attain those pinnacles of success which ordinary limited human effort can never even dream of attaining.
CHAPTER 5 - SAHASRAR CHAKRA AND BRAHMARANDHRA ARE THE CENTRES OF DIVINE POWERS
The human body (Microcosm) is said to be a small sample of the cosmos (Macrocosm). The entire body of a big tree is hidden in a tiny seed. In a small sperm lies the cast of the entire human body. The manner in which the mutual attraction and activities of the planets of the solar system are executed, can be seen albeit at a microlevel within the atomic family represented by electrons, neutrons etc. In the same way the entire cosmos can be seen in a microform within this small human body. Whatever is visible / invisible in this gigantic cosmos, is present within this tiny human body. All the special characteristics of earth too are found in the human body.
All the energies, special qualities and glories of earth are found in the point of balance i.e. the North and South Poles. From here all movements /activities of earth are controlled. As a result this earth is an active ball and a playground for all creatures. If the North / South Poles lose their balance or they undergo some change, the entire earth will look like something totally different. It is said that even if a minor fist blow is executed on the point of center of balance in the 2 Poles, the earth will change its orbit by leaps and bounds. As a result this very nature of days, nights, seasons etc. will change and take up a new extreme form. Further this minor fist blow can induce earth to dash into other stars, galaxies etc. and thus get powdered to pulp. The cause is very clear. In that the 2 Poles control all the movements of earth. It is their energy centers that induces our earth to dance to its tunes like a puppet. All earthly activities are given the necessary capacity and inspiration to function aptly. The 2 Poles are the central points of earths activities and energy centers.
Just as the planet earth attains energy and activities from the 2 Poles, so too the human body has 2 Poles. The North Pole is Sahasrar Kamal in the Brahmarandhra (center of the brain). The South Pole is the Mooladahr Chakra of Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power center at the base of Sushumna (near the genitals). According to Indian Mythology, Lord Vishnu sleeps on Lord Shesha (1000 hooded serpent) in the Ksheersagar(ocean of nectar). This Ksheersagar is nothing but the intense white ocean of love in our brain. Sahasrar Kamal is that atom which instead of being round like other sheaths is like serrated teeth of a cog-wheel. These teeth are compared to the petals of a lotus. The central point of energy lies in this atomic Pole. This Vishnu Pole or Sahasrar Kamal (1000 petalled lotus in the brain) is the very basis of attainment of sensory and extrasensory knowledge pertaining to the innumerable conscious and unconscious units of the brain. This region is the central point of all spiritual practices like meditation / trance / self-reflection / Yoga of devotion alongwith will power, soul power and Sidhis attained due to a strong power of resolve (Sankalps).
The North Pole lies in the central point of the head called Sahasrar Chakra. In the center of the head is a subtle 1000 petalled lotus and is called the Sahasrar Chakra. Within it dwells divine energy or Shiva. It is over here that Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power rises from the South Pole to merge into Shiva in the North Pole. From this area all bodily movements are controlled just as a puppeteer seated behind a curtain, controls his puppets via mere finger movements. It is also called the region of the soul etc. All energies and its sub-categories that create movements in this gigantic cosmos is found situated around the Sahasrar.
Sacred scriptures say that Kundalini is the very life force of all energies and Sidhis. A person who activates the otherwise latent (sleeping) Divine Serpent Power becomes the Lord of infinite grandeur of this world. In India this has been discovered right since ancient times. There is no end or limit to the potency of Kundalini Shakti or Divine Serpent Power.
But activating the Kundalini is not the ultimate goal of a living being. The ultimate goal of all creatures is to attain salvation (Moksha) i.e. merging the individual ego into the cosmic soul (God). The aim of any human life is to merge into Brahman / God/ cosmic soul. Yoga and other spiritual practices are meant exactly for this purpose. The same holds true for Kundalini too. This has been commented upon in Hathayoga Pradeepika as follows
Just as a person tries to open the lock of a bolt, so too a Yogi finds the path of Sushumna via Kundalini based practices. He then enters Brahmaloka so as to attain salvation (Moksha).
Only when a spiritual aspirant enters this Sahasrar Chakra, can he experience the joy of immortality, vision of the cosmos, control of cosmic powers and Samadhi or trance. The Brahmaloka mentioned in the above lines is nothing but the Sahasrar Chakra. It is very difficult to reach this Chakra. Majority of spiritual seekers get stuck in the lower Chakras and merge into the lower type of bliss that they get in that region. Hence Sidhis (extraordinary powers) attained during preliminary Kundalini awakening are said to be obstacles. Just as a man thinks the material world to be the ultimate goal of life because of having immense wealth, grandeur and a beautiful wife, so too a person who activates his Divine Serpent Power thinks that Sidhis like hearing far off words, seeing far off objects, knowing other peoples thoughts, predicting the future accurately etc. attained while activating the lower Chakras, is the be all and end all of life. Thus he totally loses sight of the supreme goal of rising upto the last Chakra i.e. Sahasrar and merging into it.
Even if a person reaches the Sahasrar Chakra, he cannot dwell in this region for a great length of time. How long can a spiritual seeker dwell in the Sahasrar Chakra? This depends on the nature of spiritual practice which he follows and how much inner spiritual energy he possesses. Many spiritual seekers dwell in the Sahasrar Chakra for a certain length of time and then get demoted into lower Chakras and their levels of lower bliss. But he who steadfastly ripens his Sahasrar Chakra, attains the omnipotent Lord and thus experiences infinite bliss eternally.
The Sahasrar Chakra lies 2 inches within the ears and 3 inches within the eyebrows. Its form is that of a ball of light in the hollow portion of the upper region of an opening called Mahavivar of the brain area. Via the process of Divine Serpent Power awakening, this Mahavivar opening has to be widened so as to enter the state of divinity. Hence it is called the 10 th door or Brahmarandhra too. In the Dhyanbindupanishad it is said that
A Yogi is one who knows the light akin to a jewel in the brain. That jewel akin to 7 golds that is lit up by an electrical like stream, is found in the lower region of Meru and 4 fingers above the fire region. It seeks shelter in the Svadhishthan Chakra and is subtle sound manifest
The scriptures while describing the powers attained in reaching this region say
Such a person knows the ultimate knowledge, he becomes omniscient (i.e. knower of past, present and future) and can do anything he wishes. He may perform any action, yet no sin accrues. None can gain victory over such a person.
In one way Brahmarandhra is the head office of a creature. It is a laboratory which helps us attain whatever we see in this visible world and all those things which are beyond our knowledge. According to Indian philosophy over here there are such rare auras of light made up of 17 principles which cannot be seen in the visible world with our gross eyes. All nervous elements and air tubicles come out from this area and spread out into the entire body. The Creator seated in this white lotus, sends and receives orders and messages from any part of the body via any nerve. He can create movements in any area. He can clean and create a rain of vital force in any area without any technological paraphernalia which we limited creatures can never even dream of doing. All this takes place because of emission, contraction and relaxation of auras of light. It is this ball of light that induces the nose to smell, the ears to hear, the eyes to see, the tongue to taste and speak. This ball of light is under the direct jurisdiction of Almighty God dwelling in the Sahasrar Chakra. In the initial stages of meditation, this light is seen either as glow-worms, twinkling stars, shining petals or half/ full moon. Slowly and steadily its divine nature is experienced. As a result the gross sense organs become lax and the working arena of the soul shines brilliantly in the entire world. An ordinary individual can worry only about his immediate family members. But a Yogi enfolds the entire world in the embrace of his soul and extends upto other Lokas (worlds) too. He also has to ascertain whether there is any imbalance in the movements of planets, galaxies etc. In a gross manner denizens of our planet earth too are influenced by these activities. Hence even unknowingly such a spiritual seeker who enters the state of Godhood, can work only for the well-being of all creatures of the cosmos. Whatever rights and omnipotency is attained by such a great soul is taken up as a gigantic responsibility by him. He may seem to be having a human body yet he has no body consciousness at all. He knows everything. He sees and hears everything and can predict future events very accurately.
The substratums of the Intellectual Sheath and Mental Sheath viz. the intellect and mind dwell in this region. They unearth news of objects lying far away or those beyond the ken of the sense organs of knowledge. When ones soul resolve progresses into the intellectual arena after leaving the mental arena, one attains divine wisdom. It comes out from the Ajna Chakra so as to unite with the different types of rays of the cosmos and thus attains its knowledge. Just as with the help pf electrical waves, space shuttles can be directed to the right or left of planet earth (called traversing), just as with the help of a television you can see scenes of far off places so too man can see scenes in my part of the world or obstruct ones cosmic movement with the help of the rays of his resolve (Sankalpa). In the Mundak Upanishad (Chapter 2) and Chandogya Upanishad (Chapter 9) details of this self-realization have been given as follows
A self realized saint subtly experiences that God without Kalas(divisions) in the form of a light that is whiter than white and is present in the Golden Sheath.
Many forms of Sahasrar based spiritual practices like Pratyahar (disallowing sense organs to contact their respective objects), Dharana (focusing of mind), Dhyan (meditation) and Samadhi (trance) have been put forth as studies. A description has been given about the good results attained due to their successful execution. The deep import of the successes of that region have been given in the form of material and spiritual progress.
Today even modern scientists accept that there are extraordinary energy centers in the brain. According to research studies conducted by the brain specialist Smithy, a pure intellect is controlled by different centres of the human brain. It is a production of a cooperative endeavour of all of them. This is the gist (region) which creates a human character and nourishes it. A mental level is created by memory, analysis, synthesis, selectivity etc. Where does its admixture and production take place? This has not been aptly deduced yet it is clear that this area should be in the cerebellum part of the brain. This is that very sensitive spot which if undergoes ripening, can induce advancement of ones inner personality. Spiritual seers of yore had discovered this center and had named it Sahasrar.
While deeply analyzing the brain so many layers are discovered which not only help us think but also creates our very character. This region of special capabilities is the Frontal lobe. In it one discovers mans personality, imagination power, ambitions, social behaviour, experiences, sensations and other important functions. It is not possible to influence this area by medicines or surgery. Only those spiritual practices like Dhyan (meditation), Dharana (Concentration) etc. can be made use of which are a part of Kundalini i.e Divine Serpent Power awakening.
In the above paragraphs we have merely made a minor reference of only one center of the brain. Yet it is well-known that the brain abounds with infinite mysterious powers. The conclusions drawn by todays modern scientists specializing in brain research, is very much in tandem with the discoveries of ancient Indian seers.
From a grosser type of classification, the brain can be categorized into 5 parts 1) Cerebrum 2) Cerebellum 3) Mid-brain 4) Pons 5) Medulla Oblongata. The last three parts that is mid-brain, pons and medulla oblongata together form a single unit called the brain stem.
According to Spiritual Sciences, 33 crores demi-gods dwell in heaven represented by the brain. But 5 of them are chief representatives. All of these control various divine centers. The 5 regions of the brain listed above can be said to be the region of the 5 demi-gods. With their help the 5 energies of the 5 sheaths are produced and controlled. The 5-fold spiritual practices of Gayatri help evolve these 5 in unison. As a result a creature dwelling in Brahmaloka or heaven, experiences a heavenly atmosphere.
So far our discussion revolved around a certain type of classification. Many scholars right since ancient times have been describing this very fact albeit in various ways. Even today this type of discussion continues. This one single precept pertaining to the classification of the brain and Sahasrar Chakra are described in various ways.
The Sahasrar Chakra is also called the pot of nectar. It is said that Som juice emanates from it. The demi-gods drink this nectar and become immortal.
According to modern brain anatomy, the brain is filled with a special Cerebro-spinal fluid. This fluid nourishes and protects the various centers of the brain. It drips from the brains membrane and is absorbed by various centers of the brain and the Sushumna (subtle spinal nerve).
The pot of nectar has 16 coverings. In the same way at certain places the Sahasrar is said to have 16 petals. These are nothing but 16 important centers of the brain. The Shiva Samhita too says that the Sahasrar Kamal has petals.
One should meditate on the Sahasrar Chakra made of 16 Kalas situated in the centre of the brain and which shines like the moon.
-YOGA MANJUSHA
These 16 Kalas of the Sahasrar are the 16 points of the brain related to the cerebrospinal fluid. If the previously 5 grossly classified parts of the brain are classified more minutely, they will add upto 16 in number as follows
1) Cerebrum 2) Cerebellum 3) Medula Oblongata 4) Pons 5) Mid brain 6) Corpus Colosum 7) Corpus Stratum 8) Pituitary Gland 9) Pineal gland 10) Thalamus 11) Hypothalamus 12) Subthalamus 13) Metathalamus 14) Epithalamus 15) Corad plexuses 16) Ventrilces.
All these above parts have centers full of ESP (Extra Sensory Potential) that control the body. By activating the pot of nectar of Sahasrar, we can make the brain more active and thus attain extraordinary benefits. The scriptures have clearly said
Due to activation of the Sahasrar Kamal, a Yogis psyche becomes equipoised and thus merges into his soul. He overcomes bondage of the material world. He is full of all-round potential. He moves freely everywhere and his speech becomes nectarine.
- SHATCHAKRA NIRUPANA
One must meditate on the Ksheersagar ocean in the core of the forehead and on the moon-like light in the Sahasrar Kamal (1000 petalled lotus).
- SHIV SAMHITA
That Yogi who continuously drinks the nectar emitted by the Sahasrar Kamal can bring in a law to kill death. Meaning death is no longer death for him because he lives a life that has gone beyond death. It is in the Sahasrar region that Kundalini merges itself. At that time the 4 types of creation merge into God and everything becomes Godlike.
- SHIV SAMHITA
That Soma juice of Sahasrar Kamal which purifies Richas, Samveda, Yajurved, Brahmanas, may it purify me too.
- YAJURVED
What exactly is the Sahasrar? This answer according to anatomists is that the electrical onrush from the center of the brain which controls bodily movement, does not get emitted from a substratum but that a special center is responsible for it. This is not mans own creation but is a divine blessing. The liver, heart and other organs function as a result of this energy attained from a divine center. The blood nourishes various bodily organs and it is a fact. It is also true that the lungs are responsible for respiration and the stomach for digestion. Yet the question arises that when these organs carry out various tasks, where do they get the necessary energy to do so? It is not correct to say that respiration, digestion etc. give us the energy to survive because if this were to be true, man could only die because of hunger or choking of breath.
This electrical onrush continuously gets emitted in spurts in the central region of the brain. It can be said to be an extraordinary electrical spring. From there a fire-worklike light is emitted in spurts. The heart experiences such rests in between heart-beats. There is a rise and fall even in wave-flows of heat, sound etc. The same holds true for the activities of the fount of energy in the central point of the brain. Scientists opine that the energy spurts are the main basis of the activities of various centers of the brain. This very principle has been elucidated by Indian Yogic scriptures in their own way.
In the center of the brain is a jewel-like light. From that, electrical streams are emitted akin to heated gold. He is a true Yogi who understands this mystery.
- DHYANBINDU UPANISHAD.
The light of Brahman (God) dwells in the Brahmarandhra as fire. Its purifies our spiritual practice. This itself is fire of Yoga.
-
MATSYA PURANA
This brain dwelling energy fount can be called Sahasrar Chakra according to anatomical sciences. Sahastra means 1000 but here it means infinite. The Lord is said to have 1000 heads, 1000 legs etc. The sparks of energy emitted from the brain fount are not 1000 in number but are infinite in number. The number of drops of that shower is not 1000 only but connotes infinite number of drops. On the basis of this description this 1000 is the fount of energy called Sahasrar.
Todays modern science accepts that infinite streams of electricity flow from the brain. As per requirements those streams flow in infinite special nerves in infinite directions. Based on each ones function, scientists have classified these nerves into various categories. For example Ascending Reticular Activating System, Descending Reticular Activating System, Specific Thalamic Projection, Defused Th. Pro. And Brain Stem Reticular Formation. From the standpoint of Yoga, the combined influence of the above systems can be seen in the form of thousands of streams of electrical onrushes in the brain.
This is the very basis of the Sahasrar Kamal (1000 petalled lotus) and Lord Shesha (1000 hooded serpent). The form of Lord Vishnu sleeping on Lord Shesha abounding with Kundalini Shakti in the midst of the Ksheersagar or Brahmaloka, is meant for understanding the state of Sahasrar. Ksheersagar means marrow of the brain. The coiled 1000 hooded serpent means the teeth of the axle of Sahasrar Chakra. A wheel of a cart too has an axle. The Lords Sudershan Chakra (disc weapon) too has teeth. Thus Sahasrar can be correlated to the abovementioned details.
The Sahasrar has been compared to the sun (1000 rays) too. It is the energy that lights up the solar system and induces various activities in them. Every unit of human existence is influenced by the brain energy. Hence if the sun is said to be the presiding deity of the ball called Bhuloka (earth), it definitely is apt. The divine existence of Sahasrar has been compared to the sun
O Deveshi ! Within the stalk of the great lotus Sahasrar dwells the soul akin to Mercury. Although it radiates likes crores of suns, yet during emotions it is comparable to crores of moons. This supreme material is extremely grand and oozes with the Divine Serpent Power.
-
SKAND PURANA
This sun is nothing but the divine principle and its material symbol is the material sun.
- YAJURVEDA (23/48)
Your indwelling nectar is one who is the indweller in the sun, whom the sun does not know, whose body is the sun and who controls the sun by dwelling within the sun.
- BRIHADARANYAK UPANISHAD
Just as our solar system gets energy from the sun, in the same way the brain gets the necessary capacity for various functions from the energy source of Sahasrar Kamal. Many machines are used in mills, factories etc. These machines are attached to motors, transmitting electricity. When the motor functions, it transmits energy to the machine. But the electricity does not belong to the motor. It comes from another source. The brain is our motor and the bodily organs are small / big machines. The energy required for smooth functioning of mills, factories etc. comes from somewhere else. It is akin to the flow of grace attained by earth from its polar regions. This is a gift of interplanetary energy. A man is free and the author of his own destiny. Yet the energy that creates mans inner personality is said to be divine grace. The moment this stream of energy is obstructed, man dies instantly. Even if the heartbeats have stopped completely yet via artificial means it can be re-activated. But the moment the electrical onrush of Sahasrar stops, know for sure that this is ultimate death. Despite the fittings of a bulb being appropriate, if the electrical connection is cut off, we face darkness. Despite the bodily organs being healthy, if the brain energy flow stops, we cannot remain alive.
Grossly we may describe birth and death of creatures in a certain manner, yet according to subtle sciences like Yoga, birth and death are totally dependent on the activities of Sahasrar Chakra. This is not the end of the discussion because a lot more follows hereafter. Sahasrar is not merely the source of life but it is from here that the nature of ones character and level is charted out and determined. Even a little extra tilt, will change the course of flow of rain. When a particular form of slant that induces rain water to enter a particular river is changed, this rain water will enter another totally different river. At the beginning of the slant there was a difference of only a few inches yet when the rain water enters a totally new river, the difference in number of miles of area covered amounts to thousands. Many trains standing in queue at a railway junction travel in different directions because of change of levers. The changed levers are separated by the few inches only yet the trains that travel in different directions are separated by thousands of miles. The same holds true for the Sahasrar Chakra. In that even an infinitesimal change in the Sahasrar, can induce amazing transformations both within and without.
For a modern scientist even to think of reduction / addition in the grants given by interplanetary space to earth, means facing fearful worries and turmoil. Even a mere thought of taking one step in this direction, induces jitters in their minds. Even a slight bit of topsy-turvying can induce massive destruction. As against this if some conducive solutions are found it will greatly benefit all denizens of earth. Thus we can become lords of unimaginable comforts. Today scientists refuse to take big steps in this direction because of lack of knowledge. They have merely taken minor steps in conducting research on the earths polar regions. They have yet not found the earths axis and nor have they made serious efforts in this direction.
But no such danger is encountered when we talk of the Sahasrar which is the axis of the brain situated in the polar region of the human body. Material / worldly energy is like a demon. Even minor misuse of electricity, fire etc. can kill many people. As against this no major calamity comes in the way in the relationship of a body and its doting mother. This is the material difference between soul consciousness and material consciousness. Sahasrar is a center of union of the individual soul and cosmic soul i.e. God. This is a consciousness based give and take. Within it overflow high leveled sentiments. The nature of spiritual practices has been conjoined to the wealth of good-will. This divine grace of greatness overflows from it.
The Sahasrar Chakra is related to the Brahmarandhra. Brahmarandhra is the 10 th door. The 9 doors are the 2 nostrils, 2 ears, 2 eyes, 1 mouth and 2 openings of faeces and urine. The 10 th door is Brahmarandhra. Great Yogis give up their life by passing through this 10 th door. The very reason behind which the Kapal Kriya (rite) is carries out after death, is that even if a bit of vital force has remained behind, it should pass out from this 10 th door and thus induced go to a higher state.
A newborn baby has a bit of a hollow space in the center of the scalp. In it there is a tissue instead of bone. It is situated between the parietal and acivital bones. As the body grows the bones too augment in size and covers the above mentioned hollow region. The Yogic scriptures say that divinity or cosmic consciousness enters the human body through this hollow region.
From the standpoint of bodily design, this region is not merely made up of bones because below its frontal area there are other principles. There is also the cerebral cortex beneath the bones of our forehead that covers the brain region. Within it are carvings akin to those seen when a farmer ploughs his field. Thus it categorizes the brain into various parts. These parts are called sulks. The cortex is partitioned lengthwise by the longitudinal fissure and breadthwise it is called central cortex. The crossing or point of union of both these corresponds to the Brahmarandhra of Indian Yogic scriptures. In front of this Brahmarandhra, lies the most mysterious gland in the upper region of the brain called the Pineal Gland.
This Brahmarandhra is a very special doorway for the individuals bodily soul to establish a bond with the cosmic soul (God). Great Yogis give up their life force through this very doorway at the time of death. Thus they merge into the cosmic soul or God. It is very clear that while their bodies are alive the Brahmarandhra of great Yogis execute tasks of give and take of divine experiences and divine powers via the medium of Sahasrar Chakra of the brain. The Sahasrar Chakra and Brahmarandhra work in tandem like a unit. Thus in Yogic practices they are influenced and utilized in unison.
CHAPTER 6 - MOOLADHAR CHAKRA THE SOUTH POLE OF HUMAN EXISTENCE
Amongst the 2 polar regions of human existence described previously, the second one is the South Pole called Mooladhar Chakra. The Sumeru center or Sushumna (subtle spinal nerve) situated between the excretory organs (stools and urine) also plays host to Kundalini or the great Divine Serpent Power which lies here in an inactive state. The male serpent of North Pole without its partner the female serpent and the South Poles female serpent without its partner the male serpent lives an unconscious life devoid of bliss. This results in man leading a lowly life despite having the Divine Serpent Power which is a symbol of all special powers. Such a person does not attain any extraordinary height, because both the poles of his body are inactive. But if anyone succeeds in activating these 2 Poles, he becomes the lord of all powers of the cosmos.
The urinary center is generally looked down upon and ignored by us all. But principally it is as important as the Brahmarandhra of the brain. It is the center of all our activities. The nose, ear and other openings are used to evict foul matter of the body but no one covers them. Hence the reason behind people covering their urinary area is to remain alert and protect the immense potential energy present in that area. Although the genital organs like other organs of the body are made up of only flesh, blood etc. yet our minds get agitated by merely glimpsing them once. When our minds are agitated due to seeing lewd pictures or lewd thinking, it is least amazing that seeing the naked genital organs even once agitates our mind. There is a mystery behind this which we should try and understand. The Divine Serpent Power situated at the base of the urinary tract is so intense even in its latent state that it is not advisable to allow a naked flow of its intense stream. By covering the genitals we are reducing the wayward scattering of Kundalini Shakti or Divine Serpent Power. Thus our minds do not get agitated. This is the reason why we wrap nappies around the genitals of small children too. A Brahmachari has to wear a loin cloth apart from his Dhoti. Wrestlers also do exactly this. It is imbibed also by Sanyasis and Vanaprasthis( people above 50 years of age and below 75 years).
We are all aware of the potency of Brahmarandhra in the brain. But very few people are aware of the mystery of the Mooladhar Chakra which is the focal point of the activity force of Kundalini. It is the miraculous result of this region that man procreates another human being. As against this God does not create another God. When these parts touch each other, an extraordinary sentimental flow is experienced by a male and a female. Despite knowing that ones partner cannot be trusted because of a lewd character, one imbibes diseases, taints, sins, family break-up etc. because of intense sexual attraction. On the one hand where the center of mutual attraction between pure hearted married couples is righteousness, there one finds a bodily activity wherein the touch of Kundalini drops, induces a miraculous influence on each others body and mind. Thus the husband masters his wife and vice-versa.
In the worship rites of a Shivalinga there is a great underlying spiritual precept. In it an individual is cautioned to accept that a very great aspect of divine power is present in that part of the body. He should further accept that this cosmos is the action energy of God and its symbol is Kundalini Shakti or Divine Serpent Power. One of the reason why a Shivalinga is bathed with holy water is that in order to attain great spiritual benefits from this divine power, it is necessary to cool it and not allow it to get hot. A Yogi and spiritual aspirant imbibes the spiritual tenet of sexual continence (Brahmacharya) so that the bodys Divine Serpent Power in the Mooladhar Chakra does not get dissipated. Thus when the Kundalini Shakti gets focused it can be raised to higher levels. Ultimately this female serpent power unites with the male serpent power in the Brahmarandhra (brain) and thus attains eternal bliss.
In Divine Serpent Power or Kundalini Science the Mooladhar is the female genital organ and the Sahasrar is the male genital organ. This is a deep discussion on subtle principles. Although within it a poetic description of sexual acts and passion have been described, yet in reality no such activity actually takes place. In Indian Tantra Science alcohol, flesh, fish, Mudras and sexual intercourse have been included in spiritual practices in a symbolic manner. This can be correlated to the sexual union of these 2 root existences. This has nothing to do with the sexual union of a male and females human body. These subtle spiritual precepts can be applied to the sexual passion of married couples. The more the give and take of sexual passion between a male and female is balanced, the more the sexual union will be satisfying and joy bestowing.
The Kundalini Shakti or Divine Serpent Power of Mooladhar Chakra coils around a Shivalinga like a sleeping female serpent. In an advanced state this Moola or substratum becomes mature. The Divine serpent raises itself from the lowly genital area of Mooladhar to the brain i.e. the Sahasrar. The small Shivalinga of Mooladhar becomes the gigantic Mount Kailash in Sahasrar. A small puddle gets the opportunity of becoming the might Maansarovar Lake. The sleeping serpentess on getting activated, coils round the Shivakantha and can now be seen as the valiant Lord Shesha. A small bud blooms forth as the 1000 petalled lotus in Sahasrar. The Mooladhar occupies a very small area but the area of Brahmarandhra is enormous.
Sahasrar can be called the wish-fulfilling tree of heaven, the imperishable garden that remains behind when the cosmos is destroyed, Bhagwad Geetas Ashwatha tree whose roots are at the top end or the Bodhi tree that gave enlightment to Lord Budha. All these comparisons are nothing but seeds of divinity that dwell in the Brahmarandhra. In an unripe state it carries out minor tasks of the mind and intellect. But when it gets activated it becomes as brilliant as the radiant sun. Due to its influence an individual and his area of contact overflows with a divine aura.
It is the inherent nature of all objects and creatures to go higher up the ladder of life. The nature of heat present in energy is to arise and march ahead. If the doors of advancement are shut tightly, the Divine Serpent Power experiences a downfall due to making inroads in the area of sexual passion. But if Kundalini Shakti gets a chance to raise itself high, this individual becomes divinely radiant and attains the capacity of manifesting light in areas of darkness.
The intense potential of the Divine Serpent Power is seen as Ojas in the physical body, Tejas in the subtle body and Varchas in the causal body. Thus all forms of brilliant light are seen as mentioned above. A very minor onrush of this inner potential can be seen as sexual passion. Sexual passion induces attraction and feeling of oneness with ones partner. One experiences joy in the act of sexual union. One attains the amazing capacity to sire a child. This is a very small sense organ but when the onrush of this inner potential overpowers an individual, his capacity augments amazingly. A major portion of mans psyche, effort, time etc. is involved in satiating this onrush. But we all know the price one has to pay for procreating children, due to sexual passion, in the form of rearing them. But if this sexual passion is raised to higher spiritual states, one can enter the portals of divinity.
Ordinarily the genital organs are correlated to sexual passion and union. But deep scientific research tells us that the Sushumna center of the Merudand (subtle spine) controls the reproductive centers of both males and females. This center is in the frontal half of the navel. A book called Notes on Physiology by Henry Oslo throws more light on this subject. He maintains that the control of activation and retraction of genital organs of males and females, is in the hands of the lumbar region of Merudand (i.e. the lower centers). From this standpoint the genitals are merely mediums of manifestation of sexual passion. Since its mouth source is Sushumna (subtle spinal nerve), it becomes clear that it is a wave of the Divine Serpent Power or Kundalini Shakti. Spiritual practices pertaining to this Super Power involves raising it higher from the lower levels of the genital region.
Napoleon Hill in his book Think and Grow Rich has thrown important light on the topic of sexual passion. He says that sexual energy is a special power that influences both the brain and the body. It inspires man to march ahead in a progressive manner.
Ordinarily the onrush of sexual energy tapers off due to it being relegated to a mere sense pleasure. Steam generally gets scattered away in all directions, yet if it is used aptly by focusing it, one can use it to cook food, run steam-engines etc. There are many high statured creative uses of sexual energy for eg. in writing sensitive poetry, service to the world with compassion, generosity etc., research studies that needs intense focusing of the mind and ultimately merging into God with faith and devotion.
Sexual desire is nothing but a type of hunger pertaining to spirituality. It can never be destroyed. The more it is forcefully obstructed the more it attacks you. Once you obstruct a flowing river, it gets the power to push you. When you fire a bullet (of a pistol) in air, it will attack whichever object that comes its way and create a hole in it before it ultimately calms down and fizzles out. When sexual passion is obstructed forcefully it intensely agitates and distorts our brain and body. Regarding this precept Freud and modern psychologists have thrown more light on it and they advise us to utilize sexual energy for creative purposes. Thus the mind will go from one realm to another. One should demean the importance given to one realm and place trust in the greatness of the other realm. No major trouble is faced when ones desires and aspirations are turned in another direction. This is the scientific truth of Brahmacharya or sexual continence. There is only one solution to ward off agitation accruing due to insatiation and apt utilization of ones potential so as to reap rich dividends and that is, convert sexual energy into creative endeavours.
One can gain material benefits by conjoining sexual energy to art, music etc. If it is conjoined to the spiritual realm one can devote oneself to God or with intense effort succeed in spiritual austerities. Both these can be fused in the form of the combined method of Divine Serpent Power awakening. The Sahasrar Chakra is the center of devotion and Mooladhar Chakra, that of vital force based penance. By ending the sleeping state of both, one can easily radiate ones enterprising sentiments by activating the Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power.
The 4 goals of human life are religion, wealth, desires and salvation. Kama is generally thought to be sexual passion yet within the realm of supreme goals, it means humor, zest and bliss. This taste of bliss is the result of 2 complementary principles. When ve combines with +ve we get electricity. When sexual energy and vital force unite, the vital force elements of the cosmos are created. Just like Prakriti (nature) and Purusha (God), a male and female are said to complement one another. Two complimentary existences work in human existence. They represent a male and female. The female is Kundalini dwelling in the Mooladhar Chakra and the male is God situated in Sahasrar Chakra. They are also called Shakti and Shiva. The goal of Divine Serpent Power awakening is to unite these 2 principles. The divine stream that emanates from this union is called Ridhi-Sidhi (divine powers) in the material world and salvation or Moksha in the spiritual world. This is also called self-realization or Nirvana of Lord Budha.
In Atharvaveda the Almighty Lord has been requested to incarnate as sexual passion
O God ! Your incarnation as sexual passion is not only supreme but is very beneficial too. It is not wrong to choose this form of yours. May you enter our minds as sexual passion and take us to the realm of sinless bliss, which destroys our intellect that errs.
- ATHARVAVEDA
While describing the inherent nature of Kundalini Super Power, scriptural scholars have used 2 terms viz. Kama-Beej or seed of sexual passion and Kama-Kala or artistic skill of sexual passion. Over here these terms do not have any connection to sexual lust or sexual intercourse. It is the very nature of Divine Serpent Power or Kundalini to induce zeal and bliss. This is the 2-fold leading manifestations of the body and mind. One is the substratum nature and the other is its complementary nature. Mooladhar is called the seed of sexual passion and Sahasrar, the seed of wisdom. When both unite the result is an act of discrimination. On this very basis lies the all-round progress of human life. Via Kundalini worship (activation) one plans this great opportunity.
Every human body has both the male and female principle. According to anatomists both these principles are present in every living being. When one of them predominates, a human being takes up that gender. With ones power of resolve (Sankalp Shakti), this inherent nature can be changed. Living beings of lower evolutionary scale manifest a bisexual character. With one single body, they fulfill both types of needs according to prevalent circumstances.
There are many human beings whose external body is of a particular class yet their inner personality is of a different class. Many a times man behaves like a woman and vice-versa. Apart from this, gender transformations too have been seen. Today surgery has become so advanced that a man is converted into a female and vice-versa. A certain male became a female and a particular female became a male. Thus they re-commenced their family life in a new way.
Although one principle predominates in both of the above yet there is a sort of one-sidedness. The more such a male lacks female emotions like softness, gentleness, sweetness etc. the more does he become harsh, emotionless etc. Thus with predominant harshness and bodily might he will make life hell for himself and others too. On the other hand if a female lacks a males enterprising nature, she will get cowered down by inferiority complexes. Thus she will act like a puppet doll. In reality both the male and female qualities should be balanced in a human being of any gender. Neither one should be exclusively predominant. In the same way the inner personality too should advance in a progressive manner. Only then will a perfect individual manifest. Thus Kundalini awakening lays down the foundation of this 2-fold progress.
Divine Serpent Power or Kundalini has been called art of sexual passion. In certain places this has been described in such a way, that it appears as though it is merely a lewd sexual intercourse. Since Kundalini dwells near the genitals, it seems as though it should be used only to satisfy ones lust.
In order to understand this principle we will have to dive deep into this topic and study it with more subtlety. There is a great difference between the sexual intercourse undergone by a male and a female and the art of sexual passion of Kundalini activation. Both genders are present in the psyche of a human being. Every human being is a half male and half female. Lord Shankar is depicted as Ardhanari-Nateshwar i.e. half male and half female. Even Lord Krishna and Radhaji are painted in this manner. A married couple has 2 bodies but one soul. This is the gross description of such a painting. The subtle meaning is that every human being has both male and female characteristics within his / her personality. When one of the principles predominate, that individual is called either a male or a female. Thus if the male principle predominates, he has manly qualities and if the female principle predominates, she expresses womanly qualities. There are many men who manifest female qualities and there are many women who behave like men. If such qualities augment a gender transformation can take place in this very birth. The gender may change in future births. If the male-female qualities are equal a person becomes a eunuch.
The subtle region of the female gender is at the root of the genitals called the vagina. Brahmarandhra, the central point of the brain is a gender. Its symbolic representative called the Sumeru i.e. in the cave of the vagina within the Mooladhar Chakra, is present a seed of sexual passion. Meaning both are present in one area. But both are latent. Their activation is called Kundalini awakening. The spiritual practice of uniting both of these is called art of sexual passion. It is also the role played by Kundalini awakening. Further, bodily sexual intercourse is but a shadow of this spiritual union.
In other words the inner sexual energy is called Super Power or Mahakali. A lone man or woman remain very busy in their worldly life. Within ones inner life if the 2-fold electrical energies do not complement one another, one experiences lack lustre and insipid situations in ones life. Thus Kundalini is awakened so as to attain all-round power and zest, by warding off the above lack luster life. With reference to this whenever spiritual practices have been elucidated in various scriptures, the term play of sexual passion has been used. In reality it is a description of spiritual sexual art only. Thus when the words vagina, sperm, seed of sexual passion etc. are used, it is done so only for activation of ones inner spiritual energy.
In its center lies the Randhra alongwith the Mahalinga. It is self-begotten, facing downwards, dark in hue and beautiful. One must meditate on it.
- SHAKTANAND TARANGINI
Within the Brahmarandhra dwells the Mahalinga. It is self- begotten and joyous in nature. It faces downwards. It is always active. It is directed by the seed of sexual passion.
- KALI KULAMRIT
There are many who run here and there in the external world, since they do not pay heed to the Shiva dwelling within themselves. It is like a person ignoring food in his own hand and searching for it elsewhere. After renouncing indolence, worship Lord Shiva as the Linga in your soul. As a result you will reap rich success.
- SHIVA SAMHITA.
The great drop is its face. The sun and moon are its breasts. Sumeru is its half Kala and earth is its beauty. In all movable and immovable beings, it is the art of sexual passion that remains awake. Art of sexual passion pervades every pore of the cosmos. It is a greatest mystery amongst all mysteries.
- RUDRALAYA TANTRA
(The Yoni of Mooladhar Chakra are the male /female genitals)
In the Kand part of the 4 petalled Mooladhar Chakra is a radiant Yoni. Further in the stem of this substratum lotus lies the triangular Yoni. This Yoni is a great secret area in all Tantras.
- SHIV SAMHITA
This secret place is a divine Yoni. The fire emanating from it is extremely beneficial for all.
- KATYAYAN SMRITI
This Yoni lies between the Mooladhar Chakra and the Svadhishthan Chakra. It is the presiding seat of sexual passion.
- GORAKSHA PADHATI
The famous 4-petalled lotus near the excretory region has a triangular Yoni in its center. All great Sidhas (saints) bow down to it. It is also called the Kamakhya presiding seat made up of 500 colours.
- GORAKSHA PADHATI
In an object based Samadhi (trance), this triangle manifests as supreme light pervading every atom of the cosmos. It is Kalagni (fire of time). When a Yogi who practices meditation, concentration and trance sees this divine light, he no longer undergoes the vicious cycle of birth and death.
- GORAKSHA PADHATI
There is a strong relationship between both of them. As long as this bond lasts, ones soul force shines brightly and can be seen to manifest as Sidhis or divine powers. When this bond breaks man becomes weak and powerless. But when the vagina of Divine Serpent Power unites with the penis of Sahasrar, mans inner lack is warded off so as to experience fullness. All spiritual practices are aimed in this direction. It is also called union of Shiva-Shakti and merging of the individual soul (man) with the cosmic soul (God). This union has been depicted in various Indian scriptures as follows
Bhaga is a power. The Lord as sexual passion is God. Both bestow good fortune. Both are equally important. Both have equal power. Both are equally radiant. Their ageless power is the instrumental cause of creation of this world.
- TRIPUROPANISHAD
The supremely blissful result of the union of seed of sexual passion and seed of wisdom has its basis in the union of Mooladhar and Sahasrar. This union is called success of all spiritual practices. This state is called divine sexual intercourse.
O Parvati ! The union of Kundalini with Sahasrar is called divine sexual intercourse by great sages.
- YOGINI TANTRA
The divine sexual intercourse of great saints, Yogis, sages etc. is the taste of pure nectar that results when the individual soul (man) embraces the cosmic soul (God).
- TANTRASAAR
Sushumna is Shakti and Brahmarandhra is Shiva. When both these unite it is called a divine sexual intercourse.
- TANTRASAAR
This union creates the situation of oneness between the individual soul and God. By calling a living being the vagina and God as the sperm, their union is full of eternal bliss.
A creature told God- You are the seed, I am the vagina. This has been going on for eternity.
- VAYU PURANA
It is in this context that the symbol of Shiva and Shaktis union is given. Shakti is compared to the ovum and Shiva to a sperm. When both unite it is said to give great results.
Sperm is Shiva and ovum is Shakti. They are the sun and the moon. When both unite one attains the supreme state.
- GORAKSHA PADHATI
Uma is the Vedi in the form of vagina and Maheshwara is the Peeth in the form of penis.
-LINGA PURANA
Rudra himself is the Jataveda fire and Mahashakti is Svaha fire. The supreme Purusha Shiva is the producer and the supreme female producer is Shatarupa and Shivaa.
- LINGA PURANA
When Shiva as a sperm unites with Shakti as an ovum, a Yoga seeker attains divinity.
- SHIVA SAMHITA
Gods direct form is Mother Nature and subtle form is Purusha. When both unite duality merges into non-duality. There are 2 streams of conscious energy in our body called Rayee and Prana. When both unite, a living being attains that sense pleasure which is said to be the ultimate joy of the visible world. When ve and +ve poles of electricity unite, sparks of fire are seen alongwith a flow of energy. When the distance between complementary units is destroyed, it results in joy and success. As long as the high-statured units of consciousness in the form of Mooladhar Chakra and Sahasrar maintain a distance, one experiences an insipidness in life. But the moment they unite, the result is attainment of material and spiritual wealth. In this experience lies the union of the individual soul and God and its sensation is in the form of divine bliss. This divine bliss is of an infinitely higher stature as compared to joy resulting from sense pleasures.
When Shiva married Parvati, they begot 2 sons. One was Ganesha and the other Kartikeya. Ganesha is the god of wisdom and Skand is the god of energy. Kartikeya was born for the destruction of evil demons. This enterprising action of his, warded off the fear in the minds of the agitated demi-gods. Ganesha gave wisdom to man and made him the crown jewel of Gods creation. Both these divine sons were the result of marriage between Shiva and Shakti. The union of Shakti (Kundalini) with Shiva (Sahasrar) is also called Divine Serpent Power awakening. When this pious deed is carried out, ones inner intellect becomes divine and the external world reaps rich success. Ones journey of life is complete only when one walks on the path of progress with the aid of the above 2 legs. Thus the supreme goal is attained.
At the time of Ganeshas birth Lord Shiva introduced him to Parvati. Ganesha was thus handed over to Parvati. This is described as follows in Vamana Purana
This son of wisdom shall be called Ganesha. He will destroy innumerous obstacle faced by demi-gods. O Devi! All moveable / immovable objects, worlds and demi-gods will worship him. After speaking thus, Shiva handed over Ganesha to Parvati.
- VAMAN PURANA
At that time the 6-faced Kumara manifested. He was extraordinary because he destroyed all sorrows and hardships.
- PADMA PURANA
Soundarya Lahiri written by Adi Shanakrcharyaji describes 6 Chakras and the 7 th Sahasrar. He has called this group as the area of Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power. Mooladhar, Svadhishthan, Manipur, Anahat and Vishudhi Chakras are said to be symbols of 5 elements and that Ajna Chakra and Sahasrar represent God consciousness. On activating the 5 elements, the Kundalini Shakti can reach Brahmaloka and can dwell with God. How this happens is described as follows
O Kundalini! While activating earth element in Manipur, fire in Svadhishthan, water in Manipur, wind in Anahat and space in Vishudhi, you give light to the Ajna Chakra. Further you dwell with God in Sahasrar Kamal.
It is you who sleep in the KulaKunda (Pyre) of Mooladhar like a coiled female serpent.
- SOUNDARYA LAHIRI (10)
You are sun-incarnate so as to ward off the ignorance of ignorant people. You are that stream, that flows as nectar of consciousness in people with weak intellects. You are a Chintamani necklace (gems that fulfils ones desires) for the poor and a boat that saves people from drowning in this material world. You are like the sharp teeth of Lord Varaha (boar) so as to kill wicked demons.
- SOUNDARYA LAHIRI (10)
Verses 36 to 41 of Soundarya Lahiri describe the awakening of the 6 Chakras and activation of Divine Serpent Power. These verses say that Sidhis like Vaibhav is present in Mooladhar, Shanti-Sheetalta in Svadhidhthan, Amrut Varsha in Manipur, Ritambhara Prajna and 18 Vidyas in Anahat and Blissful divine light is present in Vishudhi. The Shiva-principle lies in the Ajna Chakra and the great divine union is present in the Sahasrar Chakra. These attainments are so great that a person becomes divine and is called a Rishi.
Adi Shankaracharya himself became a great saint from an ordinary Dravid child due to the grace of the Divine Serpent Power. He has described his own such experiences as follows
It is only after drinking the nectar of divine wisdom flowing from your breasts, that a Dravid child (Adi Shanakracharya) gained the capability of writing beautiful poetry like great poets.
- SOUNDARYA LAHIRI
CHAPTER 7 - THE NATURE AND GOAL OF KUNDALINI BASED SPIRITUAL PRACTICES
We are all well aware of attainments based on intellectual brilliance and sharpness of the brain. An intellectual, educated person generally succeeds in his area of specialization. Thus since everyone is aware of this fact, they use up a lot of their wealth and time for educating their children. Great Indian Rishis and Yogis say that the center of this intellectual brilliance is the Brahmarandhra in the brain. It is also called the nucleus of the brain. With its aid not only does the brain state gets influenced but that the door of give and take with the subtle world is thrown wide open, akin to the bond between the earth and other planets with the sun.
The axis of the human body is said to be the Sahasrar Chakra in the Brahmarandhra (Brain area). This center not only influences the brain but decides its stature too. Further it opens the gateway of give and take with the cosmic consciousness by contacting it. Material and spiritual powers (Ridhi-Sidhi) can be attracted from this gigantic cosmos with the help of an activated Sahasrar Chakra. A tree attracts rains towards itself with its magnetic force. With its magnetic force, ore mines attract ores of its own kind towards itself and thus gets filled with it. Based on the type of magnetic force present in the Sahasrar Chakra, one can attract and collect that particular level of the invisible cosmic wealth. This very invisible attainment of ones life creates wealth of the nature of ones personality and that very stature. Thus it is the author of the creation of our character. This region is also the center of sense organ based knowledge and extra-sensory knowledge attained via a conscious and unconscious brain. It is from here that all spiritual practices like meditation, trance, self-reflection and Yoga of devotion etc. become more advanced so as to ultimately attain the goal. Ones Ojas (enterprise), Tejas (discrimination faculty) and Brahmavarchas (soul force) augment from this region.
Another very important sexual center is seed of sexual passion dwelling in the root of the genitals that is similar to the South Pole. It is called the Mooladhar Chakra by Indian seers. Its utility and grandeur is of a very high stature. The brain is the source of knowledge and seed of sexual passion is that of capability. Soul force lies at the top and material power at the base. Emotions, thoughts, aspirations rain from above and enterprise, enthusiasm, fervour radiate from below. The upper center is the contact door of Brahma (creator) and the lower center is that of material nature or Prakriti. It is from these centers that give and take of various levels takes place.
The upper region accepts and the lower region emits. The upper region has a mouth which partakes food, water etc. Via the nose we breathe in air. The ears hear sounds and eyes sees objects. Thus the knowledge based wealth of the brain augments. Since the head region accepts things it is called the North Pole. Its axis is the Sahasrar Chakra.
We can directly visualize things being emitted from the lower region. It is from here that faeces, urine and sperm are emitted. Sexual passion manifests from this region and by dangling the carrot of a good feeling, it ensnares you in its net. Thus the net of marriage and children is woven. A major portion of lifes wealth is utilized for this purpose. One can directly see how the act of emission takes place in the South Pole with the help of the sexual center. Ojas (divine light) manifests in the body. If it is made more subtle and advanced, one can augment mental Tejas and soul based Varchas thus making man more enterprising. But what happens is that these divine glories on contacting the emissions of the sexual center tend to get scattered away to nought. As against this if man only observes bodily and mental sexual continence (Brahmacharya) so as to utilize this focused energy for artistic and sensitive purposes, what can he not attain? Yet because of dissipation, all this energy gets wasted. In fact he experiences hardships even for maintaining his body, hence what will be his condition if he has to make efforts for achieving higher spiritual goals?
One of the miracles of the sexual center is that man can procreate children. Although it is God who creates all creatures, yet when we see man procreating another similar human being one yearns to call him a creator. It is indeed a miracle that man begets another human being from his own body. A magician manifests new objects from his hands, bags etc., yet none of them can create a human being. This miracle can only happen with the help of the sexual center of the human body.
The sexual center does not merely manifest desire for sexual intercourse because it is known to manifest art, beauty, zest, zeal and other creative instincts too. The word eunuch is thought to be an insult. From the standpoint of health such people are deemed unfit for political jobs. They cannot enter the police, army, navy etc. While carrying out Shradha and Yajna rites eunuch priests are not allowed to take part in them. In a certain sense Lord Krishna has insulted Arjuna in the Bhagwad Geeta by calling him a eunuch. In the spiritual arena eunuch-like qualities are dryness, despair, inactivity etc. It is the center of sexuality that is held responsible for the rise and fall of such qualities. Procreation and other creative endeavours are related to this center of sexuality. Unification of many such facts prove that from the viewpoint of material prowess and success, how important is the Mooladhar Chakra in which lies the center of sexuality. Evolutionary scientists have labeled evolutionary inspirations as sex in the field of psychology. Over here sex does not mean sexual intercourse but connotes zeal, bliss etc.
Mooladhar Chakra is the symbol of seed of sex and the seed of wisdom is represented by the Sahasrar Chakra. But these are extremely important centers of human existence. An important point to be noted over here is that from the anatomical science standpoint, it should not be looked upon as some special organ because all of these exist in a subtle form. No doubt one finds organs in the gross body that can be correlated to those of the subtle body. Thus a give and take relationship exists between the gross body and the subtle body. Yet both have a separate existence. On the one hand the heart is a center of blood circulation and on the other it manifests emotions like love, oneness, of soul etc. We are generally advised to meditate on the cave of the heart. This heart is not the organ of blood circulation but is a special conscious center of the subtle body. In the same way the Mooladhar and Sahasrar Chakras are not any special gross bodily organ. Yet, they may be correlated to some gross physical organ. Their importance is limited to influencing the presiding subtle energy when they are incited. In ones spiritual practices these organs are made use of in some way or the other. They definitely help us to march ahead on the path of spiritual endeavours.
When the Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power is activated the otherwise lax relationship between the material forces and soul forces of the Mooladhar and Sahasrar Chakras are made more intense. The process of give and take between these 2 intensifies. These 2 lakes are joined by the bridge called Merudand (subtle spine). It is called the royal path. It is called Mahaprayan or Devayaan. This is symbolically represented by the Pandavas ascending heaven.
Kundalini Yoga is believed to be a spiritual practice that attains material and spiritual prowess. Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power activation encompasses the union of earth, which is a bodily power of Mooladhar and the sun of the Brahmarandhra in the Sahasrar Kamal. Between the Mooladhar and Sahasrar lie 5 more Chakras (subtle plexuses). Kundalini Shakti present in the Mooladhar Chakra activates these 5 Chakras before ultimately uniting with Sahasrar. As a result all Ridhi-Sidhis (divine glories) get activated.
In order to activate the Divine Serpent Power present in the Mooladhar Chakra, various spiritual practices have to be undertaken. On the basis of various Vedic rites / rituals, spiritual seekers try to activate the 6 Chakras and raise their Divine Serpent Power upto the Sahasrar. They also take recourse to Pranayam (Yogic breathing), Pratyahar (cutting off the contact between sense organs and their objects), Dharana (one pointed focusing of mind), Dhyan (one pointed meditation) and Samadhi (trance). In all these spiritual practices it is ones mental resolve (Sankalpa Shakti) that is made use of. With this power of resolve all those divine glories are attained which are described in Yogic texts.
The power of mans resolve is unlimited. If it is possible to activate it and make apt use of it, one can attain the impossible.
A creature can become a demi-god or an ascetic as per his wishes. It is mans doership that can lead him up higher in life or create a downfall.
- YOGA VASISHTHA
Seven Rishis dwell in our body. They always protect the body with their pious deeds.
- YAJURVEDA
Very few people pay heed to the fact that all divine powers are present in a latent state in mans inner being. The sense organs of the body know only objects of the external world but they fail to experience the divine glories present in the cave of their souls. Our intellect revolves around attainments of the external world but fails miserably as far as understanding the nature, goal and true utility of life is concerned.
The Creator created sense organs that opened in the external world (i.e. the sense organs were externalized) and hence man tends to gaze outside. He fails to study his inner soul. It is only a very are farsighted individual, who aspires for the nectar of immortality and hence goes deep within his soul.
-KATHOPANISHAD (2/4/1)
The main leg of the high leveled Gayatri worship is the activation of the 7 Chakras. These 5 sheaths and 7 Chakras are related to one another. Both types of spiritual practices succeed together. It encompasses divine practices, worship of Rishis, all-round advancement, goal of life etc. It is also said that
Gayatri is that divine energy which activates all Chakras right from Mooladhar to the Brahmarandhra.
- TANTRA KAUMUDA
If only all the divine glories of the cosmos present in the soul are searched for and made apt use of, man can become God from a lowly creature. This research effort is called divine wisdom and the process of activation is called attainment of divine light. Chakra activation is a process whereby one activates the 7 Rishis and thus one attains great benefits due to their divine might.
If we tend to emphasize only on the rites of Chakra activation and not add our power of resolve to it, our goal can never be attained. Alongwith power of resolve, a conducive atmosphere with reference to the sentimental level too will have to be created. The more one amasses earth element i.e. material wealth and sun i.e. soul or divine energy, to that extent one attains divine glories conjoined to Kundalini activation. Self-surrender is nothing but merging the limited ego into spirituality and bodily desires into soul based zest. In the spiritual arena this is called union of earth and the sun. Kundalini worship involves efforts that helps one reach this center of focus.
One fact has 2 names called weakness and narrow-mindedness. Via Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power activation, the inner fount of energy is released and one imbibes all forces of the cosmos within ones soul. This imbibing of powers is that capacity of a spiritual seeker which helps him manifest divine glories. No doubt there is a need and utility of bodily and mental spiritual practices, yet they are fulfilled only when ones limited ego is merged into the all-pervasive cosmic soul i.e. God. To the extent ones surrender is apt and deep, one attains spiritual success.
Despite the fact that Kundalini power is only one, it fulfills goals of both the individual and the world in the form of consciousness and inert nature. Electricity of a power-house is of one single quality yet it manifests variedly in bulbs, heaters, coolers, ovens etc. The functions of all these have varied names and forms. The external forms of all these are so different that it is not possible to establish a relationship with one another. There is a great external difference as far as a fan rotating and a radio emitting sound. One machine is used to raise water to a higher level and another is used for melting ore. What a great difference. Yet it is one single electricity that helps in the functioning of these seemingly varied machines. In the same way Kundalini energy is one single cosmic life force full of intense power, yet it functions variedly in the inert material world and the world of consciousness.
In the world of consciousness the Divine Serpent Power functions as birth, growth, old age and death of all creatures. These activities are either visible or invisible. The light of this great power is seen as desire, wisdom, action, nature, psychic imprints etc. The activities of Kundalini energy in the world of consciousness encompasses an admixture of the 5 great elements, unification of many classes of various energies and birth of various creatures in different species based on imprints of past actions. A divine existence is the cause behind various movements on earth in the inert world and known/ unknown movements in space. As a result of these changes a lot of turbulence is induced in these areas. It is Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power that is at work as far as slow movements seen within atoms/ molecules, movements of stars and galaxies, ebb and flow of ocean waves, earthquakes, seasonal changes, ether based activities etc. is concerned. If even for a micro-second Kundalini energy stops functioning, the entire cosmos will get destroyed. Everything will turn into lifelessness, darkness and gloom. All visible / invisible names and forms will get destroyed and thus nothing worth experiencing will remain behind.
Suppose a piece of wood wishes to become a ball of fire, it will then have to give up its very existence. If a seed says I will not give up my name and form and yet desires to become a gigantic tree, it is totally impossible. Narrow mindedness has no place in the area of soul advancement. The more one is selfish and egoistic, the more hardships he faces as far as material and soul progress is concerned. Soul power does not exist but if one is selfish one fails to benefit from them. Lifes fulfillment lies in renouncing this limited ego. Without imbibing a traditional viewpoint, one can neither attain the goal of life nor can one succeed in activating ones Divine Serpent Power.
Augmentation in the realm of spiritual consciousness means intensifying the bond between the individual (micro) and the cosmos (macro) to such an extent, that they ultimately merge into one another. A living being is in essence a part of God. A part always wishes to merge into the whole. As long as this goal is not fulfilled the part experiences turmoil. The storehouse of water is the ocean. Clouds emanate from this ocean so as to give us rain. This rainwater collects as ponds, streams, rivers etc. and they in turn yearn to merge into the ocean. Whenever there is a slope, water tends to move in that direction. The goal of this slope and flow is to gather scattered water and transport it to the ocean. The aim of soul evolution is to speed up a living beings desire to merge itself into God. Thus instead of being a limited, unfulfilled individual, it attains fulfillment by merging into the cosmic soul i.e. God.
But the fact remains that majority of human beings lead lowly lives. In Indian Mythology they are called sinners or the downfallen ones. They say that evolution travels upwards and demotion leads us downwards. When bodily consciousness dwelling in the Mooladhar Chakra wishes to move upwards, it leads towards the Sahasrar Chakra. Soul advancement is nothing but the transformation of the seed of sexual passion into the seed of wisdom.
Soul advancement encompasses many paths. Every effort that renounces individual selfishness is of this high stature. Soul progress means imbibing high ideals in ones thinking, scheme of things and daily activities. Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power activation is a very scientific spiritual practice. It has its basis in science of the body and mind. Both the material and spiritual elements have an equal position in it.
Ordinarily a living being is immersed in body consciousness i.e. it intensely identifies with its body. This has been depicted as Kundalini coiled around a Linga like a great serpentess with 3 1/2 rounds. Its mouth faces downwards and emits venom. This Linga is attracted to the material world. A living being is this great serpentess. As far as soul wisdom is concerned, it has no clue about it. It neither is aware of its true nature nor the goal of life. Having drunk the wine of delusion, it lies latent under the influence of spiritual ignorance. The 3 rounds represent desires, yearnings and ego. In between occasionally the thought of soul advancement too manifests. None can totally ignore the innermost voice of the soul. It will always demand attention despite the fact that at every step it is unheard. This is the 1/2 round that is added to the 3 rounds of Kundalini or great serpentess coiled around the Linga. The mouth of Kundalini faces downwards which means it is in a fallen state. Our lowly desires and activities never allow our spiritual advancement. Our powers get demeaned and hence we remain fallen. Sperm ejaculation and other activities always create our downfall. Their dire results are like poison. It is apt that the fallen state of a creature is depicted as a sleeping serpentess. Our existence in this world is as fallen as a sleeping serpentess. Our creation is like poison. Our activities are like sowing seeds of venom that manifest more venom. Our state is that of a fallen man who has drunk the wine of delusion.
When Kundalini awakens it leaves its latent state. It starts uncoiling / unwinding. Its stands upright. It starts moving upwards along the Merudand (subtle spine). Instead of foul venom, its mouth now emits fragrance of nectar. This depicts our soul progress. Kundalini which rises up the Merudand ultimately unites with the great serpent in the Sahasrar. This has been depicted as the marriage of Shiva and Parvati. Sati went to her fathers place without Shivas consent and then she angrily gave up her body in the fire of Yoga. This is akin to a living being ignoring God and leading a downfallen life. Later the situation changes. Sati is re-born as Parvati. Parvati performs austerities and then marries Lord Shiva. This is akin to a living being performing penance to purify his mind and thus ultimately unites with God. The philosophy of Kundalini awakening is well understood via the following legends.
In reality the story of Churning of the Ocean in Indian Mythology is a symbolic representation of Kundalini awakening. In this story a description of the actual state of a living being is given and that how one can attain both material and spiritual success in life via Kundalini activation too has been elucidated. Kurma (tortoise) means God who is situated right below in a crouching position. In order to churn the ocean the Mandarachal mountain was placed on Lord Kurmas back. The churning rod required a rope and hence Vasuki serpent was made use of. The demi-gods and demons churned the ocean. This is the picture of Churning of the Ocean. In our daily life the Lords place is way below. He cannot hence help us in anyway. Somehow or the other the Lord shoulders the burden of a living being in a crouched, tortoise like position. The Mandarachal mountain means material prosperity. We use our wealth to satiate our arrogant ego and we hoard more and more of it. Vasuki serpent is a venomous living being. It is coiled around the Mandarachal mountain with 3 1/2 rounds. It is pulled by the demi-gods and demons from 2 ends and thus his condition is very lowly. It is powdered to pulp. Form this picture we can understand our fallen state and thus we shudder to think of a dark future.
In our daily life we must give up an inert, beastly way of living. Our thinking should be churned like the above ocean so as to manifest divine light. There is a need to awaken our sleeping souls and transform our unconscious tendencies. Ones entire life should be churned in order to transform it. If one renounces beastly behaviour and walks on the path of divinity, one can attain invaluable jewels that manifest while churning the ocean. If delusion, cravings, agitations cloud ones inner psyche, if our soul force gets depleted due to inner turmoil, we cannot earn anything in the business of life. Not only do we lose all the wealth attained form past lives but that we add more burden of negativities in our psyche. In order to avoid such a dire situation it is necessary that our minds get churned like the proverbial ocean. A revolutionary change is most required. The story of churning of the ocean can be correlated very easily to Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power awakening.
Desires tend to make a resolve so as to get converted to emotions. At such times its condition is like the holy Ganges river yearning to merge itself into the ocean. Ganges which originates in the Himalayan mountains, takes up a long journey with the soul aim of merging into the ocean. Kundalini is like the river Ganges which journeys up the Merudand (subtle spine) so as to merge into the ocean represented by the Sahasrar Chakra. On attaining its beloved, the holy Ganges was liberated from all agitations and became great because it merged into the mighty ocean.
Man will become God only when he builds a bond with God Savita which is the divine source of infinite consciousness. The sun is so radiant, so powerful. Those who know this yearn to become the son of Sun by trying to activate their Divine Serpent Power called Kundalini Shakti. Yet they forget that while walking on that path which evolves a minor ball of fire into God Savita, one should make ones existence (soul) as radiant as divine consciousness.
CHAPTER 8 - GAYATRI WORSHIP AND KUNDALINI ACTIVATION
According to Indian Mythology, Brahmaji (creator) had 2 wives. The first was Gayatri and the second was Savitri. Symbolically both are wisdom energy and material wealth. One is Para Prakriti and the other is Apara Prakriti. Para Prakriti encompasses the mind, intellect, psyche, ego, Ritambhara Prajna (divine intellect) etc. The second wife is Savitri. She is called Apara Prakriti, material consciousness or inert nature. All movements and activities of material objects are dependent on it. The movement of atoms, influence of chemicals, electrical heat, light, magnetic force, ether etc. are a part of it. Today material science make use of all these means so as to invent new things and thus helps augment our material comforts. This Apara Prakriti is Savitri. It is also called Kundalini Shakti or Divine Serpent Power.
Various bodily functions of living beings are carried out by Savitri which is material energy or Apara Prakriti. Thus the world progresses. Bodily activities include breathing, blood circulation, sleep, wakeful state, digestion, excretion, heat energy, electrical flow etc. Every object of the world is active. Non-stop does production, propagation and transformation take place. Living beings and material objects walk on the path of progress in their own way. Every unit of the cosmos is being pushed on the path of evolution. Apara Prakriti is that important center of incitement that induces inactivity to become active. It is this power that controls Sattva (purity), Rajas ( activity), Tamas (inertia) and the 5 elements. Due to its grace one attains Sidhis and boons. It is also called Savitri i.e. the second wife of Brahmaji. Health of ones body, long life, might, zest, daring, beauty etc. are dependent on it. No doubt it is all pervasive yet its special centers are the polar regions of the earth and Mooladhar Chakra of the human body. In spiritual parlance it is called Kundalini Shakti or Divine Serpent Power.
Gayatri and Savitri complement one another. They never compete with each other like the Ganges and Yamuna river of Himalaya mountains. They can be called 2 streams of God consciousness. In reality both are bound to each other inseparably. They are one vital force with 2 bodies. Even a realized saint needs a body of flesh, blood etc. and means for sustenance. Without divine consciousness material objects cannot be controlled. Thus the world moves with efforts of both put together. If material objects and consciousness separate, none will continue to exist. Both will then merge into its primary cause. Both of them are wheels of the chariot of world progress. One without another is helpless. A handicapped saint and a foolish beastly man are both half-baked. The body consists of 2 arms, 2 legs, 2 eyes, 2 lungs, 2 kidneys etc. Gods body too controls this world with the help of 2 streams of divine energy. These 2 streams can be called 2 wives of God. The word wife is merely symbolic. How can the family of divine existence be similar to that of a human being? The element fire has 2 special qualities viz. heat and light. One can call them 2 wives of fire. If one abhors the term Wives one can replace it with the term daughters. Goddess Saraswati is sometimes called Brahmajis wife and at other times his daughter. Never should this relationship be looked upon as gross or material. This symbolic description is merely a comparison for deeper understanding. Soul force is called Gayatri and material force is called Savitri. Savitri worship is nothing but Kundalini awakening. Over here the latent state of the bodily vital force along with its distortions are warded off. Electricity is both positive and negative. Similarly by conjoining Gayatri with Savitri our spiritual endeavour will truly succeed.
The Gayatri worship included in our daily activities (Sandhya-Vandan) is ordinary. For Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power awakening a high leveled mode of worship/ meditation has to be followed. It can be called a chain that ties material nature to divine energy. This vital force stream directs all movements of the individual (micro) and cosmos (macro). Despite a male and female being powerful in their own way, yet they remain unfulfilled. In order to bind both closely, an unknown magnetic force is at work. Due to its pressure couples marry and later sire children. For e.g. this magnetic fire that binds man to a woman can be called a spark of Kundalini Shakti. This cosmic divine force called Kundalini induces a strong bond between inert nature and consciousness and thus the universal movements / activities are monitored. This Divine Serpent Power induces a strong bond between the individual body and consciousness (soul) so as to manifest desires in the body, cravings in the mind and steadfastness in ones psyche. All activities of a living being manifest as aspirations, deep thinking and action. All these are a creation of Kundalini Shakti. Else how can the inert 5 elements (earth, water, fire, wind, space) vibrate and how can the taintless soul experience agitations? All magic noticed in the movements / activities of the visible world is called Maya in spiritual parlance. In the field of spiritual practices it is called Kundalini. It can be called the root sensitive center of cosmic movements and human activities. When this key lands in the hands of a Master (realized saint), all locked doors of material and spiritual progress are thrown wide open.
Within Gayatri worship, in order to augment Ritambhara Prajna (divine intellect) , in order to intensify the tangible existence, one makes use of Kundalini worship. The aim of Gayatri worship is to activate mental consciousness and the goal of Kundalini worship is to augment material activity.
There is no limit to Sidhis of conscious powers that manifest from the brain region. This is utilized by Yogis, realized saints, far-sighted thinkers, scientists, artists, knowers of the soul and other great men so as to radiate their soul force. Who is unaware of the importance of the brain? In order to advance it further one makes use of school education, self-study, association with great saints, deep reflection, deep thinking, spiritual practices and even trance (Samadhi). This particular social arena can be called Gayatri worship or spiritual practices pertaining to Para Prakriti.
The second capacity is power of action. It controls all bodily functions which include breathing, blood circulation, sleep, waking state, excretion, heat, knowledge principle, electrical flow etc. It is the doership of Apara Prakriti. It is also called the power of action which induces movements in inert objects. This too is required in ones daily life. Good health, long life, might, zest, daring, beauty etc. very much depends on it. In social terms it can be called Kundalini Shakti or Divine Serpent Power. One worships this Shakti via eating, exercising, resting etc.
By itself divine consciousness of the brain region is predominant. The moment it gets scattered, one dies. But one must realize that our bodily material consciousness too is important. If it is weak man too becomes weak, ill, indolent, lackluster, ugly and a coward. He lives the life of a donkey who carries unwanted burden on his shoulders.
The central point of Gayatri is Sahasrar or the Brahmarandhra which is the brain of all brains. The central point of Kundalini is the seed of sexual passion in the Mooladhar Chakra. Both experience oneness and are inseparably bound to one another. Via Gayatri worship one attains divine spiritual glories and Savitri gives us material powers called Ridhi Sidhi. The high leveled spiritual practices of Gayatri worship get converted to spiritual practices of the 5 sheaths. Savitri is Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power and can be activated by 5 types of austerities. When Yoga (union with God) conjoins to austerities, a compact form of soul based spiritual practices is generated. Thus one attains all-round benefits. It is most appropriate that one imbibes that mode of worship wherein the Panchkoshas (5 sheaths) of Gayatri and Kundalini awakenings based on Savitri science are in tandem. Only when positive and negative electricity combine can there be a stream of electrical energy. The chariot of soul evolution moves towards this great goal with the help of these 2 wheels.
Grossly mans body seems to be made up of the 5 elements (earth, water, fire, wind, space), blood, urine etc. It seems as though it is nourished only by food, water and air. But if deep studies are undertaken one can see that in it lies the seed of all material and conscious energies of the entire cosmos. Whatever exists in the external gigantic cosmos is present in a micro form within the human body. If these seeds are nourished aptly, one will be wonderstruck to see a gigantic tree emerging from them.
Within us exist all demi-gods, all divine worlds, all realized souls called Sidhas, all Rishis, all pilgrim spots, all divine glories (Sidhis) and whatever that is great albeit in seed form. The only thing required is to give water, manure etc. to this seed. And lo behold! These seeds will later bloom into trees giving divine flowers and fruits of spirituality.
The aim of spiritual practices is to advance our inner greatness. No doubt in the external wide spread world there are many forces yet the all-pervasive task of looking after the cosmos is already determined. A mans character decides all reactions he faces. The task of attaining success and boons are actually done by the seeds of cosmic forces present within our soul. A part of the sun is present in our eyes. Only if the eyes are healthy can one gain all-round benefits from the sun. Only if our ears are healthy can we benefit from the sun. Only if our ears are healthy can we benefit from sound waves present in space. Similarly, if the divine seeds within our soul are purified, it is easy to build a strong bond with cosmic divinity and by attracting the latter to ones soul one can attain its grace.
The aim of spiritual practices pertaining to Kundalini awakening is to evolve and purify the divine seeds within our souls. The seeds of Shiva of Kailash mountain and Vishnu sleeping on Shesha serpent in the ocean of milk are very much present in the central point of the brain called Brahmarandhra. This region is also called Sahasrar. The seeds of Mahakali are present in the cave of the genitals called Mooladhar Chakra. When these 2 forces are not united we merely get a superficial glimpse of their presence. When both these forces unite, an amazing stream of divine energy starts flowing.
When monsoons set in, arid lands become lush green. Those seeds which were lifeless in the summer season now start blooming forth. It appears as though a smart gardener has sown seeds of creepers, flowers, fruits etc. Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power activation is very much like the rainy season. The human body is a gigantic fertile piece of land. In it live priceless seeds. Until the monsoon season has not set in these seeds cannot sprout forth. But once it rains all these seeds manifest their prowess. Ordinarily those very divine glories and special qualities which we are blissfully unaware of start manifesting during this downpour.
Knowers of Divine Truth (realized saints) have unearthed an amazing unit of divinity in the 3 layers of the human body viz. gross, subtle and causal bodies. They have discovered innumerable seeds of divine power. They found all those cosmic powers within their individual bodies. Hence they lay stress on carrying out spiritual practices pertaining to their bodies and mind. Although divine powers pervade temples, mosques, churches, divine worlds (Lokas) etc. yet they are relatively more accessible within the human body. It is easier to discover them within than elsewhere. Kundalini based spiritual practices have to be carried out within ones body and when its success pours down like rain, one experiences innumerous divine powers manifesting. What can be found within our inner body?
Following is the answer
Within the human body dwell all streams, oceans, mountains, regions, Rishis, Munis, galaxies, planets, pilgrim spots, Peethas, demi-gods etc.
- SHIVA SAMHITA (2/1/2)
Jambudveep is present in the bones, Keshavdveep in flesh, Kronchadveep in veins, Shakadveep in blood, Shalmilidveep in skin, Plakshadveep in hair and Pushkar in the navel. Thus all the 7 islands (continents) are present in the human body.
- MAHAYOG VIJNAN
In the same way the 7 oceans too are found in the human body. Lavan ocean is present in urine, Ksheer ocean in sperms, Dadhi ocean in marrow, Grit ocean in fat, Ikshi ocean in the navel and Sura ocean in the blood.
The 7 pilgrim spots are present in the human body. Shri Shail is present in the head, Kedar in the forehead, Kashi in between the eyebrows, Kurukshetra in the breasts, Prayag in the heart and Kamalalaya in the Mooladhar (genitals). He who ignores these soul based pilgrim spots and instead wanders in the external worldly pilgrim centers is one who ignores priceless jewels and instead runs after pieces of glass.
- JAVAL DARSHANOPANISHAD (4/48)
Within the human body dwell all pilgrim spots and demi-gods. The chief rivers Ganga, Yamunaa, Saraswati, Godavari, Narmada, Sindhu, Kaveri, Chandrabhagaa, Vitasta and Iravati and other 72,000 smaller rivers flow in the human body. Further in the human body dwell the 15 Tithis, 7 days, 27 galaxies, 12 Zodiac Signs, 28 Yogas, 7 Karans, 9 planets and their satellites, families of galaxies and 33 crore demi-gods.
- MAHAYOG VIJNAN
Due to the speed of vital force wind, the demi-gods seated in the center of each Chakra awaken and thus Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power reaches the brain.
- SHIV SAMHITA (4/46)
Brahman resides in the heart, Vishnu in the throat, Rudra in the palate and Sarveshwar in the forehead.
- BRAHMAVIDYOPANISHAD (41)
All pilgrim spots dwell in the human body. If soul based spiritual practices are executed with the help of Kundalini Science, the human body will manifest all pilgrim spots and thus all benefits pertaining to pilgrimages are attained. The subtle Yogic nerves called Ida, Pingala and Sushumna are compared to the confluence of the rivers Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati in Prayag and this gives unlimited good merits (Punya).
Ida is the river Yamuna, Pingala is Saraswati and Sushumna is Ganga. This is the Yogic Triveni or 3-fold confluence. One attains great benefits when the 3 unite.
- SHATCHAKRA NIRUPANAM
Between Ida i.e. Ganga and Pingala i.e. Yamuna flows Sushumna i.e. Saraswati. One who bathes in its confluence is indeed glorified and attains the Supreme Divine Abode. The confluence of Ida, Pingala and Sushumna is Shiva Teertha or pilgrim spot. He who bathes in its waters of divine wisdom (Brahman) has nothing to do with holy rivers etc. of the external material world.
- MAHAYOG VIJNAN
Ida Yogic nerve is called Varana and Pingala is called Asee. Between the 2 dwells Lord Vishwanath himself. It is Varanasi. This Varanasi has been glorified by seer saints, Rishis and scriptures and is said to be the ultimate supreme principle.
- SHIV SAMHITA (5/123 117)
Ida subtle nerve that moves in the left direction within the right half of the Ajna Chakra is called Ganga.
- SHIV SAMHITA (5/132)
The presiding deity of the causal body is Brahma, that of the subtle body is Vishnu and that of the gross body is Shiva. In ordinary living beings these presiding deities lie in a corner as if tied into a knot. But when the 3 flames of Kundalini activation are lit up, it influences the 3 bodies. These 3 latent deities become active and manifest their light and influence. Those 3 bodies which ordinarily are not experienced by us become more powerful than our gross body, when their presiding deities are awakened. When the 3 knots called Brahmagranthi, Vishnugranthi and Rudragranthi are untied one is liberated from all lack and sorrow. Such a spiritual seeker manifests a divine aura.
The 3 legs of Gayatri point towards these 3 knots (Granthis) i.e. the 3 bodies. The combined spiritual practices of Gayatri and Savitri overcomes all layers of dirt on ones consciousness. Thus the divine consciousness radiates in all directions. In order that soul consciousness influences our material life, one has to take help of Savitri worship. A human body is most required for making the soul the pinnacle of worldly glory. That capacity required to utilize Gayatri (soul) for worldly endeavours is attained via Savitri worship.
There are many scriptures which throw light on the deep import of Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power awakening via Gayatri worship.
Those demi-gods which give us material comforts, cannot give us salvation or Moksha. Those who give us salvation do not give us material comforts. But Kundalini Shakti gives us both.
- TRIPURA TANTRA
Just as man opens the chain of a closed door with his own skill, in the same way a Yogi rises up the Sushumna path with the help of Divine Serpent Power practices and after entering Brahmaloka (divine abode), he attains salvation.
- SHAMBHAVI TANTRA
The soul force Kundalini sleeps like a female serpent in the Mooladhar Chakra in a coil of 3 1/2 rounds. As long as Kundalini sleeps, man leads a beastly life. Even after intense efforts he does not attain divine wisdom. When ones substratum force is sleeping, it is obvious that his material world too is sleeping. But when Kundalini awakens, ones fate and world too awakens.
- MAHAYOG VIJNAN
An awakened Kundalini gives birth to unlimited energy. First Naad or divine sound gets activated and then Bindu(material nature). The 4 types of speeches i.e. Para, Pashyanti, Madhyama and Vaikhari too get activated. Ones power of desire, power of knowledge and power of action too bloom forth and many bodily and mental powers too radiate.
- MAHA MANTRA
It is due to the perseverance of Kundalini Super Power that the world is active. He who realizes this truth cuts asunder all bonds of pain and sorrow.
- SHAKTI TANTRA
When our Kundalini Shakti awakens our speech becomes sweet. We progress in the fields of art and literature. It shines as a flame or moonlight in the Mooladhar Chakra. It can be imbibed with the help of vital force.
- SHATCHAKRA NIRUPANAM
As a result of Kundalini awakening many cosmic powers, Sidhis and potentialities can be activated. This is a fact because as a result of spiritual practices the inner seed powers of a spiritual seeker are activated and they move upwards. These spiritual practices help one to conjoin the individual soul to God (cosmic soul). To attain this one must give up minor spiritual practices and take up special, high-statured spiritual practices. One must note that each spiritual seeker has specific methods to follow, based on his inner potentials. Hence there is no need of publicizing them and nor is it appropriate to do so.
END OF BOOK 4
PART FIVE
CHAPTER 1 - COMMENCEMENT OF BRAHMAVARCHAS SPIRITUAL PRACTISES
Gayatri Meditation encompasses 3 legs: 1) Nityakarma i.e. Sandhya Vandan 2) Anushthan Purascharan with Sankalpa 3) Yog Sadhana of high stature. Nityakarma is a daily worship rite which is compulsory. Daily our psyche is clouded by taints, sins etc. In order to overcome these taints, one must carry out ones Nityakarma in the form of Sandhya Vandan. Thus one obstructs ones downfall.
With the help of Anushthan Purascharan, our latent consciousness radiates brightly and such a spiritual seeker becomes a deep thinker, radiant and enlightened. When daring and enterprise augment, one attains great success, both materially and spiritually. With the help of this power of resolve or Sankalp Shakti, one attains success while carrying out Purascharan for special goals. All this requires vows, discipline and self-control.
Nityakarma can be called primary education and Purascharan as higher secondary education. The latter encompasses Junior, High School, Matric and Secondary Education. After this one commences college/university education. This is akin to high levelled spiritual endeavour (Sadhana). Yoga and austerities are carried out by such spiritual seekers. In Yoga practices a living beings soul merges into the cosmic soul or God. This is further aided by self-study, deep spiritual thinking and meditation. On this basis one gets established in deep thought, refined sentiments and firm faith in God.
Gayatri Meditation is beyond compare, if we study other methods that lead to soul progress. In fact Indian seers and Rishis have given it a lot of importance and have ordered us to follow in their footsteps. Indian religion has 2 symbols. One is Shikah (Pigtail) and the other Yajnopaveet (sacred thread). Both are compulsory as far as Gayatri Meditation is concerned. On the highest peak of the brain is established the Shikha (pigtail) representing the flag of wisdom. This flag is a symbol of discrimination in the form of Gayatri. Yajonopaveet represents Yajna or the action aspects of Gayatri. Their 3 strands are the 3 legs of Gayatri and the 9 strings of Yajnopaveet are the 9 words of Gayatri MahaMantra. In the field of worship, Sandhya Vandan is a Nityakarma (daily chore). Without Gayatri it cannot be executed. The 4 Vedas are the foundation stages of Indian religion and culture and their Mother is Vedmata Gayatri. The Vedas have been described in other scriptures like Puranas. Thus the entire body of Rishi-Literature is immersed in Gayatri. Gayatri and Indian religious culture can be correlated to a seed and a tree.
Thus it is of great utility not only for followers of Indian culture but for world humanity too. In the 24 letters of the Gayatri Mantra lies the entire philosophy of India, albeit in seed form. Amongst the varied spiritual methods of this great Mantra, austerities are its best foundation stones. It is of great value for children, adults, aged people etc. Such methods have been described that are either very easy or difficult to follow. Yet anyone can follow either of these as per ones inner state.
High levelled Gayatri Meditation has 2 aspects. One is Gayatri and the other is Savitri or Kundalini (Divine Serpent Power). Gayatri images have 5 faces. These correspond to the 5 layers that cover human consciousness. When these layers are uncovered, ones soul shines brightly. They are also called 5 sheaths or the 5 vaults of treasure. Our inner consciousness abounds in various divine powers but in a latent state. When they are activated, the 5 deities of the inner world too manifest. Because of their special characteristics, human existence shines brightly as divinity manifest. Prana, Apan, Saman, Udan and Vyan (5 types of Vital Forces), persevere to create zeal in our consciousness. They are called the 5 sheaths. Our body and 5 elements exist due to the presence of demi-gods. The 5 elements viz. fire, water, air, space and earth are the 5 elements of the demi-gods. They are seen in the human body and they control the visible and invisible objects/forces of the cosmos. A powerful consciousness controls it. This science is called spiritual practices or Prayantra Science. Via spiritual practices pertaining to the 5 sheaths, one purifies the 5 fold aspects of matter and consciousness. This is Savitri based spiritual endeavour. Its deity is Savita. Savitri and Savita are an inseparable duo. In this particular spiritual practice, one looks upon the Sun as a symbol of the radiant Almighty Lord and thus a spiritual seeker tries to attract the Lords divine brilliance towards his soul. Because of such austerities one attains the Lords divine brilliance which is the Supreme Power of this cosmos.
The second leg of high levelled Gayatri Meditation is Kundalini. It is said to be the silken thread that conjoins matter with consciousness. It manifests as Vital Force flow and controls both individual (micro) and cosmic (macro) movements. Despite man and woman being capable in their own way, they remain unfulfilled. An unknown magnetic force brings them closer and creates a firm bond. Due to its pressure, couples unite sexually and gives birth to children. For e.g. this magnetic stream of energy that attracts a male to a female is called a spark of Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power. This cosmic Kundalini binds Prakriti (matter) and Purusha (consciousness) very closely and thus this cosmos is created. Kundalini Super Power binds an individuals body with its soul very strongly and creates desires, hopes etc. in mans psyche. All movements of a living being manifest as desires, deep thinking and action. All these are a creation of Kundalini. Else how can the 5 inert elements move or how can the detached soul harbour desires? These magical acts seen in all the movements of the visible world are called Maya in Indian Spiritual parlance. In the arena of spiritual practices, it is called Kundalini Shakti or Divine Serpent Power. It is called the mouth source of world movements and human activities. When this master key is used, all locked doors of progress are thrown wide open. A spiritual seeker who masters this unruly Kundalini, attains the capacity of controlling his soul and cosmic movements. Within the realm of high leveled Gayatri methods, one uses the 5 sheathed meditation process for activating Ritambhara Prajna (divine intellect). In order to radiate the visible cosmos, Kundalini worship methods are imbibed. Brahmavarchas spiritual practices utilize both these methods. Before a spiritual seeker enters the realm of these spiritual practices, he/she should deeply understand its nature and philosophy.
CHAPTER 2 - THE NATURE OF HIGH STATURED SPIRITUAL PRACTICES OF THE FIVE-FACED GAYATRI
Indian religion gives a prime spot to Gayatri Energy and Gayatri Science. It is called Vedmata or Mother of Indian Religion and Culture. It is akin to Gangotri or the month of the holy river Ganges in India. This small 24-lettered Mantra has 3 legs. The 4 th is Om with 3 Vyahvritis. These 4 legs have been described in the 4 vedas. The Vedas are the foundation stones of Indian Spirituality and Religion. Gayatri Meditation too encompasses such a widespread boundary.
The images/icons of Gayatri Mata depict one face and 2 arms. She has a water pot and a book in her hands. It means that by symbolizing Mother Gayatri as a great image of humanity and spirituality, it encourages all of mankind to worship Her. This form of devotion has 2 basis viz., wisdom and action. The book symbolizes wisdom and water-pot points out towards action. This truly is the Mother of Vedas. She is also the Mother of the world. She is widely accepted as an image for worship.
But as far as high leveled spiritual worship is concerned, this image that is to be worshipped is changed a bit. It becomes 5 faced. It is worshipped by all Yogis. Many symbolic representations are made in this 5 faced Gayatri and Her 10 arms. The 10 arms symbolize the subtle energy of the 10 senses. It says that the combined potency of all these 10 sense organs is equivalent to the might of Mother Gayatris arms. It spreads in all 10 directions. The 10 Digpalas guard the world. Gayatris 10 arms are the 10 Digpalas. The various weapons carried by Mother Gayatri symbolize varied streams of energy that influence various walks of life.
In this 5-faced Gayatri of high levelled spiritual practices is a hidden message which says that one must perform the 5 sheathed Gayatri worship. These 5 sheaths are the 5 demi-gods, 5 Vital Forces, 5 great qualities, 5 fold fires, 5 elements and the 5 bodies of the subtle world. By activating the 5 demi-gods via spiritual practices, one attains immense wealth and glories. The 5 Pranas (Vital Forces) are the 5 streams of consciousness that manifest great thinking. On its basis, ones consciousness manifests, greatness and intensity. The Science of Pranas or Vital Force is a part of Gayatri Science. The word Gayatri means Gay= Vital Force + Tri= activation. Thus Gayatri is that divine capacity to activate our Vital Force. In the Kathopanishad, there is a description of the 5 fold Fire Science wherein this Prana connotes these 5 streams of energy.
Gayatri with 5 faces and 5 sheaths symbolizes the intensity of these 5 elements which help create the human body (micro) and the cosmos (macro). Grossly these 5 elements are earth (mud), water used for washing clothes, fire for cooking and space in which flows wind. But a subtle viewpoint tells us that the seemingly tiny atoms of these elements abound with infinite energy. Its chemical and energy potential is very great. This gross cosmos made up of the 5 elements and the subtle cosmos made up of the 5 subtle elements, is so extraordinary and mysterious. One cannot but say that this world is a divine image of the Almighty Lord. The amazing mysteries of these 5 elements are depicted as the 5 faces of Gayatri. It is further emphasized that if it is purified and utilized aptly, one attains the fruits of worshipping the 5 demi-gods. In Indian Mythology called Puranas, the 5 demi-gods viz, Earth, Fire, Water, Wind and Space are said to overflow with untold divine capacity. Kunti of the epic Mahabharat worshipped these 5 demi-gods and thus became the mother of 5 great children. The 5 faced or 5 sheathed high leveled Gayatri Meditation connotes the greatness of spiritual practices.
Human existence consists of 3 bodies viz. causal, subtle and gross. The causal body has 5 types of sensations, the subtle body has 5 vital consciousness streams and the gross body has 5 energy streams. We have been ordained by great Seer Saints to activate all these with the help of high leveled spiritual practices.
The 5 demi-gods are 1)Bhavani 2) Ganesha 3) Brahma 4) Vishnu and 5) Mahesha. These correspond to might, wisdom, creative energy, propagation and enterprise. These demi-gods pervade in the world as cosmic divine power. They are responsible for the balance and control of the cosmos. All these 5 forces are present in the human body and they bestow joy and wealth on this small universe. They are said to be the 5 demi-gods of the 5 sheaths present in an advanced inner world. If we succeed in our spiritual practices pertaining to the 5 sheaths, we attain the boons given by the demi-gods.
A Kosha (sheath) is also called a vault. The ocean is called Ratnakar because white jewels lie hidden in its womb. Even Mother Earth carries oil, petrol, gold, silver etc. in its womb. This sort of wealth is got only after digging deep. Our ancestors always hid wealth in the ground. Their heirs would attain it by digging deep into the ground. In the same way, Gods wealth is hidden in our souls. By activating the 5 sheaths via spiritual practices, one can attain that infinite eternal divine wealth.
The 5 sheaths that are the 5 bodies of the soul are given due importance. Scriptural scholars have divided human existence into 5 classes viz. 1)Food Sheath 2) Vital Force Sheath 3)Mental Sheath 4) Intellectual Sheath 5)Bliss Sheath.
The Food Sheath means sense organ energy, Vital Force Sheath means life force, Mental Sheath means thought waves, Intellectual Sheath means sentiments and Bliss Sheath means knowledge of the soul.
Living beings of lower species lie in a lower state. Worms, butterflies etc. think only about their sense organs. Their body exists merely with the help of their life force. Mans desire to live can even keep his weak body alive whereas creatures of lower species die even if there is only a minor increase /decrease of temperature, rains etc. They never yearn to live a longer life.
The potential of the Vital Force Sheath manifests as life force. The firm and steadfast desire to remain alive manifests as a force. On this basis the body benefits by attaining a long, healthy life. It is a radiant and brilliant character that paves the way for success in all spheres of life. Bang opposite to this, a man full of fear, weakness, anger, suspicion etc. gets insulted and demeaned by others. Wherever there is lack of action conjoined to zeal, one can only experience a downfall. Enterprise reaps rich dividend. Only valiant men are victorious and this cycle continues for years and years.
The Mental Sheath means deep thinking. The more this element is present in mens character, the stronger is ones will power. Every creature possesses a mind. Even worms, butterflies have a mind. Yet analyzers of the Mental Sheath say that ones mind should encompass farsightedness, logical arguments and discrimination. The mind is like wind. Instead of being confined to one direction, it strays in all directions like a beast in the jungles. Like birds, it flies in all directions. A deep thinking individual will try and give it a proper direction so that it may be used aptly for material and spiritual purposes. This is called mental control or victory over the mind.
Yogic scriptures have given all of mankind the deep import of concentration and focusing of thought waves. This does not mean that one stops thinking totally. It only means that the thought flow be given an apt direction and made use of appropriately. Those who attain such mental control, attain success in whichever endeavor they take up. When the mind is wayward, one cannot dive deep into ones psyche. Thus no benefit accrues. In this material world, specialists are given a warm welcome. Everywhere there is a demand for A-One which is not attained by a cunning intellect but is achieved only via apt mental control. In order to attain this sort of mental control, one has to perform spiritual practices pertaining to the Mental Sheath.
In general terms, the Intellectual Sheath can be called a flow of deep sentiments. It is conjoined to ones psyche situated in the deep recesses of ones consciousness. Sentimental force is subtler than thought force and its potency and power of inspiration too is greater. Man is not only a thinking being but is very sensitive too. These sensitivities create higher levels of aspirations and man gets agitated due to its incitement. On the other hand a thought flow merely creates movements in the brain. The demi-gods and demons have been categorized on the basis of the level of their sentimental consciousness.
Balanced spiritual practices pertaining to the Intellectual Sheath makes man compassionate, generous, gentlemanly, self-controlled and taintless. Such a person can place himself in other peoples shoes and experience their pain. He thus yearns to ward off others sorrow by serving them in any way he can. Under such circumstances, various pious, spiritual tasks are executed. Such a persons individual soul keeps expanding so as to merge into the cosmic soul (God). As a result he rejoices when others experience joy.
One can measure the state of the Bliss Sheath by analyzing whether man is agitated, worried, angry, discontented etc. or whether he is happy, contented, jovial etc. At a gross level it is believed that man attains joy or sorrow due to the influence of objects, individuals or circumstances. Yet a deeper analysis tells us that this is totally illogical. Each aspect has varied viewpoints. Man is happy or sad depending on what his thinking is.
When one realizes ones true nature and that of the world, one experiences bliss in all directions. Sorrow is nothing but the result of forgetting ones true inner nature and that of the world. This spiritual ignorance called Maya is the cause of our bondage to the material world. A living being experiences the 3 fold heat of the world which is akin to hell. In fact in this divine garden of the Blissful Lord there is not an iota of sorrow. We experience sorrow because of our false viewpoint. One experiences fear because ones viewpoint of other objects, individuals and circumstances is distorted. If we succeed in warding off this distortion, we can overcome this illusion. As a result we can experience bliss and only bliss in all directions.
This is the introduction of the 5 sheaths. Based on these investigations one can gauge a persons inner development. Further we can find out how deeply a person has dived into his soul or how advanced is his soul.
CHAPTER 3 - THE COMBINED SPIRITUAL PRACTICES OF GAYATRI AND SAVITRI
According to Indian Mythology i.e. the Puranas, Brahmaji had 2 wives viz. Gayatri and Savitri. The symbolic interpretation is that God has 2 chief energies viz. Para Prakriti (Consciousness) and Apara Prakriti (Material Force). Para Prakriti encompasses mind, intellect, psyche, ego and the soul. Apara Prakriti is the group of 5 elements that go on to make this material world. This Apara Prakriti is nothing but inert nature or material force. All movements of objects are dependant on it. The subtle influence of Apara Prakriti allows atoms to move on its axis and gives them the capacity to execute their functions. They control electricity, heat, light, magnetism, chemicals, ether etc. Modern material scientists make many inventions with the use of Apara Prakriti. In spiritual parlance, Apara Prakriti is called Savitri. It is also called Kundalini Shakti or Divine Serpent Power.
If one wishes to further differentiate Gayatri and Savitri, it can be said that the former is wisdom energy and the latter is action energy. Gayatri is the force of consciousness and Savitri functions within the realm of this material world. Due to the influence of both these energies, our world and its creatures exist. Brahmavidya is the Science of Gayatri Consciousness and Kundalini Science represents Savitri. Gayatri Energy is sanctified via spiritual practices of the 5 sheaths and Savitri energy is purified via Kundalini Science. Gayatri practices unfold mysteries of pure consciousness and Kundalini gives us material power. One sided progress is undesirable. Ones progress should be all-round in nature. Thus, we are wisely advised to execute both the 5 sheathed Gayatri method and Kundalini awakening. Instead of saying this is contradictory we must understand that they complement one another.
Emphasis is laid on combined spiritual endeavour instead of a one-side one. It is seen that off and on we commit errors regarding these 2 methods. A follower of the Path of Wisdom (Raja-Yoga) limits himself to devotional practices and a Hatha Yoga follower only performs rights and rituals alongwith austerities. One must note that both have immense utility. None is more important than the other. Yet if only one of these paths is followed, we are making a grave mistake. It is best that both be executed in unison. This sort of unison between Shiva and Parvati will give us a devotional boon in the form of Ganesha and material powers in the form of Kartikeya.
Gayatri practices awaken our mental consciousness and Kundalini or Divine Power awakening gives us material energy. Both complement one another. A powerful body and intellect, complement each other. They are like 2 wheels of a cart. One without another is of no value. A wise sage who is ill and an idiotic animal like human being remain unfulfilled. Therefore there is a need of both Gayatri and Savitri (Kundalini) modes of worship. Of course! As far as seniority is concerned Gayatri i.e. conscious energy of the mind is the leader.
There is no limit to the manifestation of conscious powers of the brain region. Great Yogis, thinkers, seers, artists, painters etc. make use of these powers and thus get revered by one and all. Tell me, who is ignorant of the miracles of wisdom power? Who is ignorant of the importance of the brain? In order to evolve ones brain, we go to schools, colleges, conduct self-study, associate with saints and meditate on God. This social arena is nothing but spiritual practices of Para Prakriti or Gayatri.
The second potential is Power of Action. It is called Apara Prakriti. All the activities of our body are executed by it. For e.g. it is responsible for our inhalation/exhalation, blood circulation, sleep, excretion, heat, knowledge principle, electrical flow in nerves etc. It is said to be the doership of Apara Prakriti. It is also called the Power of Action that induces movement in inert objects. It is not any less important in our daily living. Our health, bodily might, long life span, zest, daring, beauty etc. are dependant on it. In the social arena, it is called Kundalini Shakti or Divine Serpent Power. Ordinarily via eating, exercising, resting etc., we are worshipping this power.
Generally divine consciousness present in the brain is predominant. If it gets scattered one dies immediately. After having said this we must realize that our bodily material consciousness too is no less important. If material consciousness diminishes, one becomes weak, diseased, ugly in looks etc. Thus one leads a hopeless gloomy life.
Gayatris center is Sahasrar or Brahmarandhra which is the brain of all brains. The center of Kundalini Shakti is the Seed of Passion in the Mooladhar Chakra. Gayatri symbolizes divine consciousness and Savitri symbolizes divine light. Both are inseparably related to one another. One is called the North Pole and the second is called South Pole. These are the 2 ends of our planet Earth. These 2 poles of human existence unitedly control all our activities. Via Gayatri we can attain divine powers and Savitri gives us material power (Ridhi-Sidhi). The high leveled spiritual practices of Gayatri Meditation get converted into 5 fold Yoga spiritual practices of the 5 sheaths. Savitri is Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power and it can be activated by 5 types of austerities. Combination of Yoga and austerities is the basis of soul based spiritual endeavour. Thus it is advised that one takes up both Gayatri of 5 sheaths and Savitri Science which encompasses Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power awakening. When 2 poles of electricity unite, an electrical flow manifests. The chariot of soul progress reaches the supreme spiritual destination via these 2 wheels.
It has already been said that Kundalini is Para Prakriti and it is situated in the Mooladhar Chakra of our body. It is also called Fire of Life. In the Mooladhar Chakra is a triangular seed of energy which corresponds to Sumeru.
A snake like electrical flow coils around this Sumeru which is none other than Kundalini Shakti. It is also called an electrical whirlpool. In quite a few rivers which flow speedily, whirlpools or eddies are created. In these eddies the water flow is circular. Ordinarily electricity flows in a human body via nerve centers but in the Sumeru of the Mooladhar Chakra, it moves in a circular fashion just like a whirlpool. It is called a female serpent. The form of Kundalini Shakti or the Divine Serpent Power is akin to a serpentess.
The energy of whirlpools in a river is gigantic. Huge ships too get capsized in such eddies. The energy of a whirlpool is 60 times more than that of a normal flowing river. In comparison to the normal electrical flow in a human body, the energy of Kundalini Shakti is infinitely greater. If one can truly understand its nature and science, if we can utilize it aptly, it is doubtless that man will attain immense power both materially and spiritually.
A medium activation of Kundalini creates extraordinary power in a human body.
In reality the great serpentess form of gross Kundalini can be seen in the snake-like body encompassing Mooladhar, Merudand (subtle spine) and Brahmarandhra (subtle brain). The 2 great powerful Chakras situated above and below are the 2 mouths of a female serpent.
The Merudand is porous and this can be described on the basis of Modern Anatomy research. Whatever is seen during surgical operations is a gross viewpoint. Whereas Yoga Scriptures which give a subtle description authoritatively maintain that it overflows with divine energies. According to Yogic scriptures there is a Brahmanaadi (divine subtle nerve) in the Merudand. It bifurcates into 2 subtle nerves called Ida and Pingala. These are not in anyway connected to our arteries/ veins. In reality Ida and Pingala are 2 subtle electrical flows. Just as an electrical wire has a rubber shell connected at the top and within it is a hot and cold wire made up of zinc and copper, in the same way are these subtle nerves designed. Brahmanaadi is like a rubber shell and within it are 2 hot/cold wires called Ida and Pingala. They do not exist at the gross/physical level. They can never be located via modern surgical operations. It is a divine creation of subtle electrical streams.
In the inner brain region generally one finds only marrow in all the cells. Nothing can be seen in a microscope, yet we are all aware that the ordinary looking units of divine centers of the brain have extraordinary power. Mans character, thinking, activities along with bodily/mental existence is totally dependent on these divine centers. Superficially the brain of all humans looks identical yet subtly there is a vast difference. On this basis man is categorized as great or lowly. This subtility can also be seen in Kundalini Shakti or Divine Serpent Power. Even with the help of modern surgery, we cannot see Mooladhar, Sahasrar, Brahmanaadi, Ida, Pingala etc. All these divine creations are so subtle that they are not visible to the gross eye or modern advanced technology. Of course! One can directly experience them with ones subtle vision.
The distance between the excretory opening and genital opening is of the measure of 4 thumbs. In its cave lies a triangular molecule. The entire body has round molecules but this region is an exception. This triangular molecule is an energy whirlpool. Generally electricity of the human body and that in machines flows in a straight direction. Sometimes it does move backward but later it continues its march ahead. But as far as the subtle electrical flow of this triangular molecule of the Mooladhar is concerned, it moves circularly just as the money plant creeper. This circulatory movement has 3 1/2 rounds. Later this electrical flow gives up its circulatory motion in order to march forward.
This flow reaches the brain region i.e. the Sahasrar Kamal or Brahmarandhra after traveling up the Merudand. The central point of this energy center is different from the other units of the body. In that it is flat and not round. Their edges are rough and not smooth. These edges are like teeth of wheels of machines. According to great Yogis these teeth are 1000 in number. Symbolically it is painted on a lotus flower whose petals are open. Hence this central point of the brain is called Sahasrar (1000 petalled) Kamal (lotus).
Just as energy and action are attained via the north and south poles of earth, so too the human body has 2 subtle centers. The north pole is Brahmarandhra i.e. the Sahasrar Kamal in the brain. It is the center of meditation, Samadhi (super conscious trance), reflection on the soul, devotional practice (Bhakti-Yoga), will-power, soul power and Sankalpa (resolve) based Sidhis (divine glories).
The second South Pole is Mooladhar Chakra or Sumeru center. It is situated in between the excretory and genital opening. The great serpentess Kundalini which has terrific action power, lies latently over here. The great serpent of the north pole and the great serpentess of the south pole lie unconscious when they do not come in contact with one another. Despite the human body being a symbol of all special qualities, he lives a lowly life and ultimately dies like a moth in a flame. He never attains anything great. The reason is that both the polar regions of our body lie unconscious. If these poles are activated we can see cosmic powers manifesting in this tiny human body.
Generally the urinary area is looked down upon. Yet principally it is as important as the Brahmarandhra of the brain. It is the center of all our activities. We use our nose, ears etc to throw out unwanted matter but never do we cover them. The reason why we cover our urinary area is not to expose the divine energy lying within it. No doubt that our genital organs too are made of bone and flesh like other bodily parts, yet it is a fact that on seeing someones genitals we get sexually incited. When lewd photos or pictures agitate our minds, why should we be amazed that it can also taint our emotions? Over here this secret should be understood. The latent Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power in the urinary area is so intense that its stream cannot be exposed. Hence by covering our genitals, we are protecting our energy flow and refraining from getting other peoples mind getting agitated. This is the reason why nappies are worn by babies. A Brahmachari in addition to wearing a Dhoti, has to wear a loin cloth too. Even wrestlers do the same. The same method is applied to Sanyasis and Vanaprasthis. Taints like greed, avarice, ego, anger etc. agitates the Sahasrar Kamal of the north pole and thus all its energies are wasted due to scattering. When the brain worries over these taints, it cannot focus its thoughts and merge into Brahma or God. If the intense energy of the south pole i.e. the Mooladhar is utilized aptly we can carry out gigantic tasks. Human beings have infinite action energy. But it gets scattered away in lewd (sexual) thinking. If this energy is focused properly in a one pointed manner, man will give up his beastly behaviour and will imbibe the inner nature of divine beings.
The Puranas mention the incident of the churning of the Ocean. This is nothing but a subtle description of the activities of Kundalini Shakti in our body. Our urinary area is filled with salted water akin to the ocean. It can be said to overflow with jewels. These jewels are in the form of gross and subtle powers. As per the advice of Prajapati, the ocean was churned. The demi-gods and demons helped in this churning. The demons tried to pull the rope towards themselves i.e. towards selfish desires and the demi-gods wished to execute creative tasks. This pull and push situation was similar to churning butter from butter-milk.
The churning of the ocean further says that the Lord became a Kurma or a tortoise. On his (tortoise) back was placed the churning rod in the form of the Sumeru mountain. Lord Shesha (Serpent) was tied to this rod with 3 1/2 rounds. The energy seeds of Lord Kurma and Sumeru (of the Mooladhar Chakra) are flat and not round. Its back is directed towards the navel area. Surrounding it lies the great serpentess Kundalini Shakti with a coil of 3 1/2 rounds. Churning represents activation of Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power wherein our desires are brought under control. In this churning both demi-gods and demons try to establish their might. Even the divine sports of Lord Krishna i.e. the Raasa Lila is similar to this. We will not go into its details but will only say that control of our sexual and other desires is equivalent to Churning of the Ocean.
Spiritual practices of the 5 sheaths of the human body manifest extraordinary divine powers. Kundalini activation means awakening great divine powers within our body. Over here Kundalini Shakti is obstructed when it tries to move downwards and instead it is encouraged to move upwards. These spiritual endeavours help the individual soul to merge into the cosmic soul i.e. God. Instead of following ordinary spiritual paths we must execute high leveled spiritual practices. These are very difficult and rare. Yet the spiritual practices of Brahmavarchas try to make them more facile and easily attainable. Thus a person from any environment can raise himself both materially and spiritually.
CHAPTER 4 - VARIOUS STAGES OF SPIRITUAL PRACTICES OR SADHANA
So far uncovering of the 5 sheaths and Kundalini Shakti or Divine Serpent Power activation have been looked upon as very special but also very difficult to execute. To an extent this is true. Yet our endeavour has been such that all beneficial methods should be made available to the common mass. Due to the Lords grace we have tasted success in a major way. This is proved by the fact that Gayatri Meditation which was previously a great secret and difficult to execute, has been made available to the layman. Within India and all over the world millions of human being have imbibed the easy path of Gayatri worship. Due to Mother Gayatris blessings they are gaining strength of character. Kundalini worship alongwith that of the 5 sheaths that fall within the realm of Brahmavarchas spiritual practice, have been put forth in such a way that a man living in any situation can attain benefits of high leveled Yogic practices.
The 2 spiritual practices of Brahmavarchas give a lot of importance to concentration of the mind along with meditation. This is most required. Man possesses 2 great powers viz. Sankalpa (mental resolve) and sacred emotions. Both of these can positively influence the gross and subtle human bodies. Via concentration and meditation, these 2 bodies are made radiant and are then made apt use of. Thus concentration and meditation are the foundation stones of activating the 5 sheaths and Kundalini based spiritual practices. Generally each spiritual practice has 5 helper practices. A spiritual seeker slowly but surely augments them. The more it gains intensity the more ones concentration and meditation deepens. In this book we have laid emphasis on the methods of concentration and meditation. The other helper spiritual practices have been detailed in another book called Brahmavarchas ki Das Sahayogi Sadhanayain.
In high leveled spiritual practices (Sadhana) the inner powers are given a special direction and flow. It is helped by our mental resolve and sacred aspirations. Extraordinary efforts are required to give an apt direction to these energy streams. Not only does a spiritual seeker make use of his own limited powers but seeks divine powers from the Lord. While chanting the Gayatri Mantra when we say Prachodayat, we are in effect praying that may our consciousness walk on the path of greatness. In high leveled spiritual practices this ordinary prayer has to be converted into an intense Sankalpa (resolve), agitated insistence and radiant direction, only then do our spiritual practices become vitalized.
In both the 5 sheathed practices and Kundalini Yoga, one has to give a proper direction to ones mental resolve and sacred emotions. On this very basis one meditates too. After every step some time is given so that the inner soul imbibes it and puts it into practice. On the basis of the following directions generally 45 minutes are taken up while concentration/meditation are executed.
While keeping in mind these directions, it is difficult to execute meditation in that very manner. Only when one truly imbibes these directions is it possible. As soon as we lay emphasis on our memory, our mental energies used for meditation get scattered and thus the standard of our meditation diminishes. Hence it is best that a few people perform congregational meditation and one person speaks about the directions in a stepwise manner. One can even make use of a tape-recorder.
Shantikunj-Haridwar (India) carries out Brahmavarchas camps in which participants are taught to carry out special spiritual practices. It is very important that a spiritual seeker avails of an apt environment, direct guidance and powerful protection when he carries out spiritual practices. Thus in the beginning stages one should learn all this in Brahmavarchas Camps. Until then one can carry out concentration /meditation techniques. Never should one execute high leveled spiritual practices without proper guidance. Helper spiritual practices are varied and are meant for people with various mental states. Thus it is most required that they be carried out only with proper guidance. Once one learns it properly, one can march ahead slowly but surely on ones own. It is apt that concentration / meditation be executed in a congregational fashion.
Concentration / meditation should be carried out only once a week in ones own place. Helper spiritual practices can be executed daily, based on ones own inner state. Concentration / meditation practices should be undertaken in a quiet, serene environment. It should be carried out during Brahma Muhurat (i.e. in the morning between 3 a.m. to 6 a.m.). All spiritual seekers should be seated after cleaning themselves properly. Directions should be given by an individual or via a tape-recorder.
The benefits of concentration / meditation accrue only if a spiritual seeker understands its deep import and philosophy. Directions will vibrate in every participants ears yet depending on ones inner capabilities, different people will show different stages of progress. Hence emphasis has been laid on listening and deeply reflecting on these directions and executing a meditation technique in which all this is put into practice. A spiritual seeker can execute a particular meditation technique every week based on his liking and mental state. If he wishes to carry out both, it is best he executes 5 sheathed practices and Kundalini activation once. Over here in the beginning stages, directions for mediation have been given and then its philosophy, spiritual principles and nature have been elucidated. With which direction of meditation, one should make efforts for what type of an experience? As an answer various paragraphs have been written.
Over here we should understand that one moves ahead stepwise on the path of spirituality. If one tries to rashly speedup things, the results will be nought. Every seeker who wishes to enter the realms of high leveled Gayatri Meditation is first asked to execute primary spiritual practices so as to make his psyche more receptive. In Shantikunj Camps, new seekers are asked to commence spiritual practices under apt protection. But outside of Shantikunj people are asked to go ahead only in a stepwise manner. Following is the method of concentration /meditation that has been classified in 3 legs.
1) Entry into the fundamental stages of meditation: This method commences with Dhyan Mudra which later gives experience of oneness with Savita Energy. This particular leg is found equally in 5 sheathed and Kundalini meditation.
2) Special meditation program: Over here via concentration /meditation the inner energy streams are made more conducive with respect to the 5 sheaths or Kundalini worship. Both these methods have different steps.
3) Shanti Paath at the end: This is carried out after special methods are completed and is undertaken in an equal manner in both meditation methods.
As shown above the beginning and end of both meditation directions are same. They differ only in the middle stages. Yet for better understanding the directions of meditation of 2 types are enumerated separately. But while speaking about it there is no need for repetition. Hence the description of primary directions of meditation (fundamental) has been given along with that of 5 sheathed meditation. In the end Shanti Paath (prayer to God for world peace) has been described.
CHAPTER 5 - HIGH LEVELLED GAYATRI MEDITATION
CONCENTRATION / MEDITATION FOR ACTIVATING THE 5 SHEATHS
1. ENTRY INTO THE PRIMARY STAGES OF MEDITATION:-
a) Caution- Waist erect, both hands on ones lap, eyes closed, body steady, mind quiet, meditative posture.
b) Divine world of spiritual practices- Lap of Ganges, shade of Himalayas, Shatikunj- the place of penance of 7 Rishis, Brahma Varchas, Gayatri Pilgrim Spot, continuous lit flame lamp, continuous Yajna, regular Mantra chanting, divine assembly, divine environment, protection of 3 divine centers, divine world of spiritual practices.
c) Inspiration of our Holy Preceptor, our own sacred emotions, union of Ganga-Yamuna, union of individual soul and divine soul is God.
d) Sensitive trance desires quietened, yearnings quietened, ego quietened, agitation calmed.
e) Divine vision early morning, eastern direction, golden sunrise, golden sun, the life force of Gayatri i.e. Savita.
f) Savita icon, goal, one to be worshipped, Savita-light, knowledge, divine wisdom. Savita-fire, divine energy, Savita-Brahman, Savita-Varchas, Savita Brahma Varchas, Savita to be worshipped. Brahma Varchas to be worshipped.
g) Oneness or non-duality Spiritual seeker surrenders to Savita. Surrender- bidding adieu, merging, spiritual seeker and Savita becoming one, devotee and God becoming one.
2. SPECIAL MEDITATION APPLICATIONS :-
a) Five sheaths 5 bodies of the individual soul, 5 faces of Gayatri, 5 Pranas of consciousness, 5 elements of the gross body, 5 demi-gods of the subtle world 5 sheaths activation of the 5 sheaths.
b) First is Food Sheath Centre is the navel plexus (Chakra), fire plexus, energy whirlpool, powerful energy cyclone.
c) Entry of Savita Energy From the navel plexus in the Food Sheath.
d) Savita fire in the Food Sheath- Food Sheath, akin to Savita, akin to fire, bolt of fire, vault of fire.
e) Fire divine aura, divine aura in every particle, divine aura in every nerve, divine aura in every pore of the skin.
SECOND IS VITAL SHEATH -
f) Centre is the Mooladhar Chakra, Vital Force plexus, energy whirlpool, powerful energy cyclone.
g) Entry of Savita energy, from the Mooladhar Chakra into the Vital Sheath.
h) Savita in the Vital Sheath Electricity, Vital electricity, Savita, Vital sheath akin to Savita, like Electricity, Electricity ball, electrical vault.
i) Vital electricity divine light in every particle, divine light in every nerve, divine light in every follicle.
j) Divine Light- aura, enterprise, daring. Activation of vital electricity, activation of Mooladhar Chakra, activation of the Vital sheath.
THIRD IS MENTAL SHEATH -
k) Centre middle of eye-brow, Ajna Chakra, third eye, energy whirlpool, powerful energy cyclone.
l) Entry of Savita Energy, from the Ajna Chakra to the Mental Sheath.
m) Savita Light in Mental Sheath- Mental Sheath akin to Savita, akin to light, ball of light, vault of light.
n) Light Prajna, Prajna Light in every particle, Prajna Light in every vein, Prajna Light in every follicle.
o) Prajna balance, discrimination, activation of Prajna, activation of Ajna Chakra, activation of Mental Sheath.
FOURTH IS INTELLECTUAL SHEATH
p) Center is heart plexus, divine plexus, energy whirlpool, powerful energy cyclone.
q) Entry of Savita Energy, from heart plexus to Intellectual Sheath.
r) Savita in Intellectual Sheath Deepti- Intellectual Sheath akin to Savita, like flame, flame ball, flame vault.
s) Flame faith-devotion, flame of divine light, Extra Sensory Potential or ESP.
t) Flame in every particle, flame in every vein, flame in every follicle, activation of heart plexus, activation of oneness of heart, activation of faith/devotion, activation of Intellectual Sheath.
FIFTH IS BLISS SHEATH -
u) Center- Middle Sahasrar in the brain, Brahmarandhra, energy whirlpool, powerful energy cyclone.
v) Entry of Savita Energy from Sahasrar Chakra to Bliss Sheath Sun of the inner world, Sahasrar- Golden Sun.
w) Savita Brilliance in Bliss Sheath Bliss Sheath akin to Savita, akin to brilliance, ball of brilliance, vault of brilliance, brilliance satiation, contentment, peace.
x) Activation of Sahasrar Chakra, activation of soul wisdom, activation of divine knowledge, activation of Bliss Sheath, activation of the 5 sheaths, activation of the 5 elements, activation of the 5 Vital Forces (Pranas), activation of the 5 demi-gods.
SHANTI PAATH IN THE END
a) Om tamasomajyotirgamaya
Asatoma sadgamaya
Mrityorma amritam gamaya
Tamasoma Tamasoma Tamasoma
Jyotirgamaya Jyotirgamaya Jyotirgamaya
Tamasoma Jyotirgamaya
b) Om Om Om Om Om
CHAPTER 6 - HIGH LEVELLED GAYATRI WORSHIP
CONCENTRATION / MEDITATION OF KUNDALINI AWAKENING
1. ENTRY INTO FUNDAMENTAL STAGE OF MEDITATION-
a) Caution- Spine erect, both palms in the lap, eyes closed, steady body, calm mind, meditative posture.
b) World of divine spiritual practices- lap of Ganges, shade of Himalayas, austerity spot of 7 Rishis, Shantikunj, Brahma Varchas, Gayatri pilgrim spot, continuous flame lamp, continuous Yajna, regular Mantra chanting, divine assembly, divine atmosphere, protection via 3 divine centers, divine world of spiritual practices.
c) Inspiration of ones preceptor our own sacred experiences- union of Ganga / Yamuna, union of Soul and God (micro with macro).
d) Sensitive Trance desires calmed down, yearnings calmed down, ego calmed down, agitations calmed down.
e) Divine vision- morning, eastern direction, golden sunrise, golden sun- Savita, Savita i.e. Gangotris very life force.
f) Savita icon, goal, one to be worshipped, Savita light, knowledge, divine knowledge, Savita fire, energy, divine force, divine Savita Savita Varchas, Savita Brahma Varchas, Savita to be worshipped, Brahma Varchas to be worshipped.
g) Oneness/non-duality, seeker surrenders to Savita. Surrender bid adieu - merging, seeker and Savita became one. The Lord and devotee became one.
SPECIAL MEDITATION APPLICATIONS -
a) Savita energy enters Kundalini area i.e. Mooladhar, Kundalini Shakti or Divine Serpent Power activation, Kundalini i.e. Vital Force electricity or life force, Fire of Yoga, inner energy, divine light.
FIRST LEG CHURNING
a) With the help of Savita, churning of the energy region, churning of Mooladhar, churning of the ocean, churning of life. Churning Churning Churning . Due to churning, ones inner power increases, Kundalini Shakti awakens.
SECOND LEG RISING UPWARDS
b) With the help of Savita raising the awakened energy, raising of life force, raising of Kundalini or Divine Serpent Power. Rising up from the Mooladhar to Sahasrar via the Merudand (subtle spine). From earth to divine world via the Devayaan (divine path). Raising of life force, upliftment, elevation, rising, Kundalini awakening.
THIRD LEG PIERCING
c) With the help of Savita piercing the 6 Chakras- incitement of energy sources via Vital Force electricity. Piercing Chakras Sound goal. Piercing incitement activation, activation of 6 chakras, activation of Svadhishthan Chakra, activation of Manipur Chakra, activation of Anahat Chakra, activation of Vishudhi Chakra, activation of Ajna Chakra, Kundalini awakening.
FOURTH LEG EXPANSION
d) With the help of Savita expansion of Yogic fire, soul expanding into cosmic soul (God), spark converted to a forest fire, flame connected into a volcano. Individual soul expands, Kundalini activation.
FIFTH LEG - TRANSFORMATION
e) With the help of Savita transforming soul light into God light, lowliness transformed into greatness, desires converted to sacred emotion, separation transformed into union, man transformed into God. Transformation, augmentation, awakening Kundalini awakening.
f) Divine Serpent Power rules over all centers, liberation from bondage, vision of God, Kundalini activation the great awakening.
SHANTI PAATH AT THE END
a) Om tamasomajyotirgamaya
Asatoma sadgamaya
Mrityorma amritam gamaya
Tamasoma Tamasoma Tamasoma
Jyotirgamaya Jyotirgamaya
b) Om Om Om Om Om
CHAPTER 7 - THE BASIS OF CONCENTRATION / MEDITATION AND ITS BENEFITS
Mother earth is known to be fertile and a womb of jewels. We all know that skies give us life-giving water in the form of rains. There is no limit to the vault of valuable objects in the ocean. Yet human beings have infinitely more wealth than all this put together. If the veils of our inner character are uncovered, we will visualize demi-gods and incarnations of God in this small body made of flesh and blood. Only on the basis of enterprise and hard work can one earn wealth.
Every unit of our body is amazing. We will be amazed to see great mysteries if we dive deeper within it. Amongst all bodily organs the brain predominates. When one sees its conscious, unconscious and higher conscious activities, one will realize how great is the living being that directs its movements. Everyone is aware of how one earns money, fame, comforts via education, art skills and other profession. As a result every individual tries to augment his own intellectual skills and that of his family members. The bodies of all individuals are strikingly similar. The mind is very special. He who evolves his mind attains lot of success in life. Those who fail to do so tend to live a life of poverty and hardships. Mans downfall or upliftment is mainly dependent on his intellectual state.
This so far has been related to the conscious mind. The inner movement of bodily organs is dependent on the subconscious mind. Good or bad habits are gathered in this area. Depending on our hopes and aspirations, the motor of our life moves in either a good or bad direction. It is the subconscious mind that decides the nature of our body, its attraction, its strength and skill. It is unknown powers that decide our destiny. The creator of this mysterious unknown personality is the subconscious mind, which directs all movements of a living being with the help of the intellect. Brain research scientists say that a very small area of the mysteries of the mind has been discovered. In comparison to the conscious mind (known), the subconscious mind (unknown) is more pervasive. Only a very small area of the brain is made use of by us. If only its latent state is awakened and made apt use of, one can see gigantic energy manifest in a tiny human body. If only we master our subconscious mind, we can became authors of our destiny.
Beyond the conscious and sub-conscious mind lies the superconscious state. It is inseparably bound to cosmic consciousness and a lot of give and take takes place between them. In comparison to the gross material world, the objects and energy flow of the subtle world are extremely more high statured. If a give and take relationship is set up with it, man can understand those divine mysteries, which are otherwise unknown. One can attain divine help, which is otherwise unavailable. With the help of gross powers we attain merely a few gross comforts that are transitory in nature. But with the help of subtle powers we attain those divine glories, which stay with us eternally. We have seen and heard of miraculous personalities who possess Extra Sensory Powers (ESP). Over here the special qualities of the superconscious mind manifest amazing skills and personalities.
It is very difficult to control the brain. No doubt our soul is powerful yet it lives a life of lack, poverty and hardships. The reason being that there is no self-control. Our activities akin to an unruly horse create agitation. If we fail to control our mind, how can we control external circumstances? We all want to change our circumstances but we never first control our psyche. Thus peace and joy run miles away from us. Great Seers/ Saints of the world proclaim Control your mind and you will gain victory over the world. This is a fact because the moment you master your mind, it is easy to master external circumstances. Self-control means mastering your thought waves and hence your very thinking. We must direct our thinking in an apt direction. This is achieved via Dhyan Yoga or meditation. A particular form or thought is introduced in the slate of our mind. It is pressurized into moving along a very small focused periphery. It is forced to stop its jumping nature like that of a monkey. No doubt this task is very difficult, yet a powerful resolve (Sankalpa) and unswerving perseverance helps us make this task easy and successful. We have never controlled our mind in a regular manner. Our character is nothing but a symbol of our mind. Our mind is used to following the path of lowliness and thus we imbibe bad thoughts. If only we had tried controlling the mind, we would have made it cultured and sacred. Only then can we be revered as a great personality. One could then avail of cooperation and respect from all directions. It is the demeaning mind that makes us execute lowly activities. Thus we live a sorry life of poverty and pain. On the other hand if one wishes to raise ones lowly state, one will have to purify the mind by overcoming all taints within it. We will have to learn the art of self/mind control in order to purify our psyche. Dhyan Yoga or meditation is a powerful method that helps us attain mind control.
Meditation has many aims-
1. Controlling ones monkey like mind that runs hither and tither.
2. Utilizing the power of self-control for apt tasks.
3. Augmenting our intellectual potential via concentration of the mind.
4. Focussing our mind at a single point via a powerful resolve (or Sankalpa) so as to create miraculous movements.
5. Discovering the mysterious layers of consciousness with our own will power.
6. Discarding all mental taints.
7. Augmenting sacred activities
8. Maintaining a serene mind even amidst chaotic conditions.
9. Experiencing bliss and peace under any circumstance.
10. Influencing those areas of contact with our thought electricity and augmenting elements that bring joy and peace in the world.
All these are worldly / intellectual applications of concentration / meditation. Even a so-called atheist can get benefits with a little bit of alertness and zeal. This method of meditation is of a general and medium stature. Ever so todays highly intellectual human beings too will have to accept its great utility. Even a man of ordinary faith and sensitivity can benefit from meditation.
Ahead of this are high leveled benefits of meditation. For that a psyche full of intense faith in God and sacred sentiments is required. As a result one can merge ones individual consciousness with cosmic consciousness or God. Attracting and imbibing ones Guru (preceptor) and icons divine powers is possible only with the help of these high statured meditation methods. Only then can the individual soul (microcosm) merge into the cosmic soul (macrocosm i.e. God). No doubt man is an infinite storehouse of divine powers and that he can activate them with his own efforts. Hence one carries out primary and medium leveled meditation techniques. But it is only with the help of high leveled spiritual practices that one can contact great divine souls and thus merge our individual soul with cosmic consciousness or God. The goal of high leveled concentration / meditation is attainment of God, attainment of the goal of life and union of a living being with God.
Just as due to augmentation of bodily, intellectual and financial wealth the association of our contact area and means of public welfare augment, in the same way purification of individual psyche benefits both the individual and the entire world. Via the gross world we attain a lot of benefits due to hard work. The glories of the subtle world are that much more infinite. Meditation is a very powerful tool which helps one build that will-power which can imbibe / attract these innumerable divine powers. Wild beasts of the forest are very dangerous, but when they are trained, we can make apt use of them. In the same way once we master the art of controlling and making apt use of our mental potential, our character and personality will became brilliant. The greatest achievement of human life is to attain inner/soul progress without any external help. As a result one can attain innumerable divine powers. Thus it is most required that we master the art of meditation i.e. Dhyan Yoga.
With the help of meditation we can attain God and get the superconscious experience of God realization. Further one becomes healthy, strong and one can attain secret divine powers. All holy scriptures maintain that only man can attain divine powers and glories. This is a fact. Our consciousness is omnipotent. Yet the reason why we fail to attain them is that we lack the art of mental control. He who masters this art of self-control, gains victory over the entire cosmos.
Via concentration/meditation of the 5 sheaths the 5 Vital Forces of our consciousness and the 5 elements of our body became so radiant that one becomes a leading personality of the world. The 5 faced images of Mother Gayatri symbolize the energies of the 5 demi-gods of the inner world. If concentration/meditation are executed methodically, one masters the subtle cosmos and thus one establishes an important relationship of give and take with it.
In the meditation practice of Kundalini Shakti or Divine Serpent Power awakening the doors of manifestation and utilization of infinite divine powers albeit in seed form are opened up. Kundalini is our bodily energy. With its help one attracts infinite energies of the material world and this one becomes powerful both materially and spiritually. During the uncovering of the 5 sheaths (Panchakoshas) the mysterious layers of conscious energy are unfolded. Soul power is made more radiant via the 5 sheaths and the body via Kundalini Shakti. In order to achieve this 2 fold aim, concentration / meditation predominates over all other spiritual practices.
Ordinarily people think that meditation means placing an image in front of our mind and trying to continuously imagine that form. This is only partially true. No doubt one makes use of this method, yet only those with a powerful mental resolve see this image blurred at first and later very clearly on the slate of their minds. Not everyone has this power of resolve (Sankalpa) and it is possible only for people with special mental capabilities. Only those people who combine their sacred emotions, imagination power, faith in God and focused mind so as to mentally visualize Gods image very clearly, are capable enough of executing such a method of meditation.
As soon as an aspirant sits for meditation with eyes closed, he immediately thinks of things/ people very dear to him. As though seated in a movie theatre they revel in this mental video of theirs. True meditation means trying to paint an image on our mental slate with the help of sacred sentiments. First one sees the image with eyes open and then one tries to visualize it mentally. This is called Trataka. Only then very slowly and steadily the mental image becomes clearer and thus our meditation keeps progressing.
Not every human brain is aptly designed to augment sacred sentiments or visualizing sacred images during meditation. Hence in order to focus our meditation, Drishya Yoga or Bindu Yoga is not recommended. The fundamental aim is to stop scattering of thought waves and instead focus them at a point. This can be achieved variedly with the help of 5 sense organs of knowledge. These are methods like Naad Yoga, via ones ears, Gandha Yoga via our nose, Rasna Yoga via our tongue, Sparsha Yoga via our skin. Over here one sees forms with the help of subtle eyes.
For seekers of a preliminary stage, it is best that their minds follow one thought flow which is sacred. The concentration/meditation of scientists, artists, musicians etc. is of this variety wherein their minds revolve around one particular type of thought flow. Thus they perform extraordinary feats. The same tenet is used in concentration/meditation techniques with reference to 5 sheaths and Kundalini activation. Over here the thought flow is predominant. It is akin to seeing a movie on one particular topic. It is not necessary that one will get the holy vision (Darshan) of the particular Gods image that one meditates on. In certain special types of mental reflection, infinite images appear every moment and then they disappear. Yet this is not true meditation. The following nature of concentration/meditation too is of this type. If importance is given to the directions laid down and one thinks deeply about them, know for sure that the true goal of concentration/meditation is about to be achieved. It is beyond doubt that one will benefit immensely from their sacred results.
CHAPTER 8 - THE SOLUTION AND NECESSARY PRACTICE OF DIVINE VISION
Darshan (vision) means seeing objects directly with our eyes open. Vision is always direct. The Lords vision is generally in the form of gross images and pictures. It can also take place in the form of cosmic vision. This gigantic cosmos is an image of God with names and forms. Images placed in temples, churches etc. too are forms of God. Even our faith in incarnations of God and Saints can be in the form of moving images. With the help of acting we can establish divine inspirations in our psyche along with the help of our eyes. While reading books, our eyes with the help of pious wisdom and imaginations, establishes divinity in the brain. One gets these experiences in pilgrim spots, rivers, mountains, trees etc. This is direct vision. This is the method by which one influences consciousness with the help of gross objects.
Ahead of this is the event of entering the subtle world. Whatever is seen here is not material but is based on our sentiments. We do not see subtle objects with our gross eyes because they can only be seen with subtle eyes. This in turn is concentration/meditation. In meditation our divine eyes have to be made flame-like. Ordinarily they are blurred and dark. Whatever is seen in our imagination is something that is dear to us akin to seeing with our gross eyes. Apart from this what is not seen or has been inadvertently ignored by our minds, has to be meditated upon with intense effort. Our divine eyesight can be activated by inner Tratak(staring at one object). In inner Tratak an object of our liking is stared at with open eyes. Later we try to imagine this very object with our eyes closed. As a result of regular practice, the imagination potential of a spiritual seeker becomes so powerful that with the help of his divine eyes, he can clearly visualize any image during meditation. In the initial stages the image is very blurred but with due practice, the image becomes clearer and clearer. Tratak (staring) is carried out on images of God. Initially an image or icon is stared at with eyes open and a lot of love. Later when with eyes shut one imagines this image it can be visualized in the region of our sacred sentiments. If one is attracted to any special person one can see its meditation image both in the waking and deep sleep state. When separation commences or union is about to take place, ones yearning intensifies. Thus the image of a beloved one hovers on our mental screen. This Tratak hence is of an effortless variety.
Generally Tratak (staring) is carried out in a lighted flame. This flame is kept at a distance of 3 feet and at the height of ones shoulders. One stares at this flame for 10 seconds and then one reproduces it in the mind with eyes closed. When this method is mastered, one can at will visualize this flame internally without the help of the material flame lamp. Instead of a flame one can carry out this Tratak method on the moon, morning sun, stars, bulb etc. Later one can use objects which have less light for e.g. trees, ponds, temples, great human beings etc. In mesmerism one is asked to stare at a black spot on a white piece of paper. This also is Tratak wherein later, the black spot is viewed mentally. In this manner one meditates on light, saints, or images of God.
In meditation imagination of form predominates. With the help of divine sight and imaginative eyes, a sentimental image is created in the mind. This is a very well accepted meditation technique. One can also meditate with the help of other sense organ. With the help of ears we can meditate on sound. Gross Naad Yoga means blowing a conch, ringing a bell etc. and then meditating on the sound that emanates from it. In the subtle world one can hear subtle sound called Anaahat. With the help of subtle ears, one makes ones mental state specially focused and only then this Anaahat can be heard. Thus in Naad hearing one can hear various divine sounds. In an advanced state one can hear divine messages of the subtle world with the help of Naad Yoga spiritual practices. Thus the unknown becomes known. When one smells something intensely with ones nose, one can smell it subtly with the help of meditation. This is a spiritual practice wherein one meditates with the help of ones gross and subtle nose. With the help of the tongue one can taste sour, pungent, salty, sweet etc. food items and then via meditation one can taste them subtly. With the help of our touch sense organ i.e. the skin, we can feel objects that are hot or cold. Later with the help of meditation, we can feel subtle heat or cold with the help of our subtle skin. Traatak means concentrating ones mind on one particular spot with the help of our sense organ. As a result our consciousness does not get scattered and our practice of focus of mind augments. Thus when this focused energy is meditated upon, we attain great success. Maharshi Patanjali defines Yoga as Chitta Vritti Nirodha. It means obstructing our thought waves from getting scattered and utilizing this focused energy for a higher goal. It is this method that helps us open our divine eye of wisdom.
So far we have discussed the technique of rendering our divine eyes capable of imagining images in our mind. Now we shall discuss the technique of creating sentimental images in our psyche. This is the epilogue of concentration / meditation. In the prologue stage we intensify the capacity of our divine eyes in order to create imaginary images in our psyche. The second leg encompasses conversion of these imaginary images into sentimental images. One must experience these images as real and not merely a figment of our imagination. If with due alertness and seriousness one imagines some thing, it will appear live on our mental screen. When our brain is stormed by the fear of a ghost, we feel the ghost to be absolutely true and real. This imaginary ghost can be even more dire than enemies we contact with our gross eyes. This ghost can never be imagined in an unmindful or absent minded state. In fact what is required is an intense belief that can become a fact. Over here there is no need of an image, event or a particular technique.
One cannot gain all-round success if one tries to create emotional mental images only during a set period of time. What is required is that like rehearsal of a drama one should keep practicing during times of a leisure etc. Before we see a movie in a theatre it has to undergo the process of shooting. Even before shooting the actors have to rehearse each scene. Only when the rehearsal is perfected, a particular scene is shot. The same technique is applied for meditation wherein the mental image which has to be made real, is practiced again and again during times when one is free.
In the Brahma Varchas technique of concentration /meditation, one is not taught the method of focusing ones mind on a particular image. Instead the thought flow is made to follow one desired direction. In the primary stages a seeker is asked to focus his mind on the image of Mother Gayatri and visualize her hands, legs, jewellery, vehicle etc. with devotion. Thus in the kindergarten stage a devotee-child is introduced to its God-Mother. This Divine Mother nourishes and rears Her child. As the child grows up it is introduced to its father. A fathers contribution is required for his childs education, marriage etc. This happens only after the child grows up a bit. As the child grows in age, the mothers affection decreases a bit and what is required is ones fathers contribution. Gayatri is our Mother and Savita is our Father. In high leveled spiritual practices, one meditates on Savita. Savita predominates in our concentration /meditation. Over here it is not enough if one merely visualizes a ball of flame with ones divine eyes. Instead its inspirational flow is made to pervade every area of ones soul. Thus a compact thought flow is created. It is akin to a movie.
Meditation is higher in stature than concentration. Focussing of mind is merely obstruction of scattering of thought waves. Thus our goal is not merely concentration or focusing of mind. Good results are only attained if this concentrated / focused energy of the mind is utilized for higher purposes. Mesmerism studies initially asks one to concentrate on black or white colour. Later this concentrated energy is utilized for curing a patient. A dam is built so that the flow of water is obstructed and then this in turn is directed to various fields, gardens etc in the form of small water streams. A bullet is concentrated in ones rifle and then it is aimed at a particular spot. In the first leg the scattering of thought waves is obstructed and later, this concentrated energy is utilized either for material creative tasks like scientific research, literature etc. or to realize God as the cosmic Soul. In Brahmavarchas meditation technique, Savita energy is conjoined either to the 5 sheaths or Kundalini Shakti. This gives results akin to harvesting after seeds are sown in a field. Hence this technique is not merely focusing of the mind but that the different aspects of the soul are purified. Thus sentimental images can be created in the mind.
One should see to it that during concentration/meditation the sentimental images, experiences etc are in tandem with the instructions laid down. Hence one must keep practicing even during hours apart from ones daily routine of meditation. This sort of practice is not as intense as the one pertaining to our regular practice hours. Yet it never goes waste and can in fact create great results. Never should one lose hope if in the initial stages of meditation, the image is blurred or incomplete on ones mental screen. Instead calmly persevere more. Thus slowly but surely the sentimental image will become clearer and no longer will there be major lapses on our part. All this takes time so never despair. Thus even if no immediate success is achieved, one must calmly and steadfastly persevere. One day the ripened state of meditation will definitely be attained.
Many immature devotees never make efforts to create sentimental images in the mind. Instead foolishly they yearn that images on their mental screen should appear on their own, just as one sees images appearing on the television screen. They say that we should just be seated quietly like a movie spectator. This is as ridiculous as a man who wants a blooming garden with flowers and fruits but refuses to work hard and sow seeds. This is very much impossible. Others opine that by hearing, reading or mentally reciting these instructions, one can see sentimental images in the mind. This is like a person who wishes to fight with a wrestler so as to gain a prize of a few lakh dollars, without taking apt training of becoming a good wrestler himself. Only actions breed reactions / results. Those who are well aware of this fact, steadfastly try and make their divine eyes more brilliant and thus achieve the goal of creating sentimental images in their mind. Brahma Varchas meditation practices helps such aspirants succeed in their endeavour. They definitely succeed in unveiling the 5 sheaths and unearthing divine jewels in their psyche.
CHAPTER 9 - ENTRY INTO THE FUNDAMENTAL STAGE OF MEDITATION
(A) DHYAN MUDRA
For concentration / meditation it is most required that our body is steady and mind is serene. If the body keeps moving, if our hands feet etc. are not motionless, it will not be possible to attain steadiness which is compulsory for meditation. In the same way if our thoughts scatter here and there, if our imagination becomes wild, we will not be able to unveil the covering on divine consciousness and that desired sentimental images in the mind will not manifest. If the mirror keeps shaking we will not see our clear reflection. If a horse keeps jumping a rider cannot sit on it. It is most required that while trying to sit on the horse called the mind, our mind should be calm and devoid of turbulence during meditation. In the same way if the body keeps moving, the nerve centers get agitated and thus the mind too gets agitated. Hence it is most required that when one meditates, the body and mind should be steady and calm.
For concentration/meditation one should sit in the Dhyan Mudra. The latter has 5 legs viz. 1)steady body 2)calm mind 3)spine is erect 4)both hands in ones lap (left hand down, right hand on top of it) 5) eyes closed. One should try and sit cross-legged. It is difficult to sit in the lotus posture or Sidha posture for 45 minutes without experiencing pain. If our legs experience pain it is not easy to meditate. Thus sit in the Sukha posture i.e. cross-legged. One should see to it that for 45 minutes one does not have to move ones legs. In the meantime if there is pain in the knee or some other problem, one can move ones leg. All this is for those who have leg, knee etc. problems. But for those who are healthy it is ordained that their legs remain unmoving for at least 45 minutes of meditation. When one is ill, one can sit on an armchair and because of this problem one can spread ones leg.
While sitting in a meditative posture one should not only steady the mind, but that ones thought waves too should be calmed down. All bodily parts, starting from the head to the feet, should remain steady. As soon as we become introverted our body appears light in weight. Further, one experiences the heart beats very naturally. One must meditate on this lightness or heart beats. As a result our intellect will be obstructed from becoming extroverted.
(B) DIVINE ATMOSPHERE
If the area of meditation along with the environment is conducive, one will definitely taste success. A farmer or a gardener knows very well which type of seed should be planted in what type of land and in which season. If due importance is not given to this, our results will be nil even if the seeds and our hard work are appropriate. We all know how water and air influence our health. In order to carry out spiritual practices, a serene and clean area has to be looked for in ones residence. From the sentimental viewpoint there is a need of a more sacred and conducive environment. Pilgrim spots were eulogized in the past because their environment was very sacred. Keeping this precept in mind, we have chosen the historical region, where the 7 Rishis of yore had performed intense penance, for Brahma Varchas austerities. Ganga is famous for purity and the Himalayas for its serenity. This in turn influences our mind. Hence almost all great divine souls like Lord Rama, Lord Krishna etc. headed for river Ganges and the cool shades of the Himalayan mountain. Any conducive environment is a creation of apt activities.
In order that spiritual seekers attain natural steadiness and inspiration, in order that they progress on the spiritual path, the forest Brahma Varchas of Shantikunj (Haridwar, India) has been propagated as a powerful Gayatri pilgrim center (Website : www.awgp.org). Over here is lit an eternal flame lamp, Yajnas are executed continuously, Mantra chanting is encouraged and spiritual discourses for self-reflection are arranged on a daily basis. Other unknown and invisible powers too shower their nourishing principles in this area. It is hence that in comparison to spiritual practices carried out in an impure, tainted environment, those executed in a divine / sacred environment gives infinitely more success. One is protected both directly and indirectly. Just as the heat of the breasts of a hen gives maturity to its eggs, so too protective powers of such divine regions helps one attain success in a relatively easier manner.
Those who can reside in such a divine environment should avail of its benefits. Apart from this when you perform penance in your own residence, you should mentally feel as though you are in a sacred environment and can thus attain good results. One attains good merits by imagining Charanamrit in Pooja and Achman, river water of holy regions in ones bathing tub and looking upon an image as Gods real form. If one mentally imagines that one is performing spiritual practices in holy pilgrim spots, ones mind will gain untold benefits.
At the time of concentration / meditation after closing ones eyes, one should imagine that ones soul has reached the holy atmosphere of Brahma Varchas and that one is attaining immense benefits due to its divine influence. A mind with a very powerful resolve (Sankalpa), attains merits pertaining to desired environment.
While seated in a meditative posture (Dhyan Mudra), a seeker should feel he is seated in Shantikunj Haridwar (India). All round is spread the fragrance of Yajnas. The serenity of the holy river Ganges pervades in all directions. The atmosphere has a divine aura due to the influence of Rishis, pure souls, saints etc. It is as though a divine armour has manifested due to the divine brilliance of great saints. A combined divine influence of all of them induces divine sentiments in the hearts of all creatures.
(C) CONFLUENCE OF THE RIVERS GANGA AND YAMUNA
There are 2 aspects of the concentration/meditation techniques of Brahma Varchas.
1. The divine center that inspires this technique showers untold grace.
2. The spiritual seekers self-imagined sentimental images. In this manner there is help and grace of 2 personalities in an equal manner for this goal. For the success of such spiritual endeavour, this confluence is extremely beneficial.
A student studies very hard in a focused manner, passes with high grades, gains respect and thus gets benefited. Despite all this benefactors who gave him a conducive environment to study and the guidance of good teachers, play a major role when this student gets high grades in his examination. If pious benefactors had not provided him with text books, foes, school uniforms etc., such a student would never succeed in his academic life. The same holds true for this students teachers, because if they had refused to guide him in his studies, the student would definitely have failed in his exams. There are some subjects in schools / colleges which are difficult to grasp without the help of good teachers. If students are not given practical training in art, music, surgery, engineering, they will never be able to pursue their respective professions.
No doubt that along with the concentration / meditation of Brahma Varchas, an aspirant has to carve out imaginary images in his mind, yet what is most required is the will power and inspirational power of the guide (Guru or preceptor). Wherever this confluence exists, there success knocks at ones door. Thus it is compared to a 3 fold confluence.
This meditation technique helps spiritually advanced souls reach their goal faster and in a relatively easier manner. Only a person whose psychic spiritual imprints of past infinite lives are powerful can withstand the onslaughts that one comes across on the path of spirituality. Men with an immature mind coupled with weak faith cannot imbibe divine light. But those with a powerful psyche have attained great benefits. Keeping this in mind aspirants at the Brahma Varchas Institute have benefited both from benefactors and spiritual guides. A lonely seeker is like the river Ganges. His effort is the main stream. It is only when Saraswati and Yamuna rivers join it that it is called the King of all pilgrim centers. Thus the pious merits pertaining to it are n-fold. The spiritual practices mentioned over here are of this stature.
In the midst of a divine environment, a seeker full of zeal and radiant thinking should experience that he is not alone. This is because a special spiritual force exists so as to help him march ahead on the path of spirituality. The zest within and intense spiritual endevour creates a huge wave which ultimately merges into his soul. This in turn creates another extraordinarily powerful wave. Consequently one gains enough daring and zest to take gigantic steps on the path of spirituality.
(D) SENTIMENTAL TRANCE
There are generally 2 states of peace and meditation one is bodily sleep and the other is mind based trance. Mental meditation is called peace/steadiness and balance is called equanimity and same-sightedness. When this state is achieved the seeds of spiritual practices start sprouting. Bodily meditation is sleep. We all know that sleep is as important as eating food.
Yoga Nidra means overcoming bodily agitation and tension with the help of a powerful resolve. Generally this state is achieved during deep sleep yet it can also be attained via relaxing postures, Shavaa Asan and resolve that makes the body actionless. This mental resolve based sleep is called Yoga Nidra. Over here the body is tension free and ones resolve is awake. If the resolve dies down then this state is converted to ordinary sleep. In order to overcome bodily tension during concentration / meditation, it is best to attain the above state in optimum measure. The more the resolve to relax the body and mind is powerful, the more this state is achieved and thus the all round benefits of meditation accrue.
There are just a few lowly actions that incite, agitate, scatter and demean our mental arena or emotional area. If only these lowly actions are warded off can we attain a high intellectual, farsighted and discrimination oriented state. There are 4 chief actions that intensely harm our bodily and mental balance viz. 1) desires 2) yearnings 3) ego 4) turbulence. Due to its distorted state ones viewpoint turns lowly and thus our actions become vile. With such an agitated mind one cannot even execute common routine tasks and spiritual practices are very much dependent on a calm and pure mental state. A boat capsizes under stormy conditions. Similarly our inner turmoil converts our life into hell.
In order that during both the schedules of concentration / meditation these 4 remain calm and that they do not attack us, Brahma Varchas meditation technique makes us cautious with reference to these foes. It helps us invoke that holy peace which wards off these enemies. If this mental resolve remains steadfast we can experience a trance like state and our meditation will help us reach our goal.
We must experience that the waves of divine zeal from this divine confluence is influencing our body and mind very intensely. Distortions like selfishness, ego etc are expelled like dark clouds. Thus our psyche over flows with divine bliss.
(E, F, G) ONENESS AND DIVINE VISION
Divine vision means a vision of conscious greatness which lies beyond the importance and attraction for material objects / comforts. This is self-realization or vision of God. Since our eyes are made up of matter, we can perceive (see) only material nature. Our soul and its purified form i.e. God is conscious in nature. Hence God/Soul cannot be seen by our inert eyes. God can only be experienced by an extremely pure mind. When the individual soul merges into the cosmic soul (God) one gets divine experiences and it can be called a divine vision.
In order to awaken meditation and intellectual experiences, one has to engrave some divine images in the mind. They are called demi-gods. The supreme symbol of divinity is Savita. Savitas body is Sun. Savita is radiant consciousness.
The early morning Sun is golden and serene. Gold is an extremely heavy, lustrous and priceless metal. It never rusts. We all are aware of its beauty. Because of its golden special quality the early morning golden sun is said to be a symbol of Savita. It is best used for concentration/meditation. The life force of Gangotri is Savita. In the Gayatri Mantra one prays for a pure intellect from Savita. In various religious sects, demi-gods of various names and forms are worshipped and meditated upon yet almost all religions look upon brilliant light as a symbol of Almighty God. The radiant sun is its supreme representative. By looking upon fire too as its symbol, we light lamps, carry out fire sacrifices etc. Many methods of meditation on light can be looked upon ultimately as solar worship. In the concentration/meditation of Brahma Varchas, in the high leveled spiritual practices of Gayatri, Savita is the icon. Savita is the ultimate goal, which one meditates upon.
Savita represents regularity, hard work, disburser of light, bestower of life, destroyer of distortion, awakening, lone traveler, leader etc. These are those very qualities that man is directed to imbibe for his overall well-being. Yet the 2 outstanding qualities of Savita are 1) Light and 2) Heat. Light symbolizes divine wisdom and heat represents energy of fire. These are 2 legs that help us reach the goal of human life. Wisdom is soul power and bodily strength is material power. Wisdom is Brahma and material power is Varchas. Both together are called Brahma Varchas. This is also Savita. It represents the spiritual power of wisdom and material power of bodily strength. For all round progress one has to generate both these powers. During Savita meditation we are advised to attain both these powers. When we say sun is our idol (God), we mean that its inherent powers must be imbibed by its devotee. One must worship and pray to the Sun. Worship means divine yearning. In the Brahma Varchas mode of concentration/meditation one visualizes Savita with divine eyes. Its power and special qualities become our idol and goal. By proclaiming its divine glories as our idol we make necessary efforts in that direction. This is the basis on which we divinely visualize Savita i.e. with our gross eyes closed.
We have to establish Darshan. While augmenting its omnipotency one slowly becomes one with it. This is the first leg wherein we visualize idols of God in temples. As a result of oneness with demi-gods when one prays with faith and devotion, an actual give and take relationship manifests between God and His devotee. When 2 ponds are joined by a pipe, the water levels of the 2 ponds becomes equal. Even so God and His devotees become one due to intense faith and devotion. The more their aspiration, viewpoint and activities become similar, to that extent their centre of existence too manifests similar qualities. Such true devotees are virtually equal to God. They are called Rishi, incarnation, prophet etc. From the stand point of self-contentment and balance of the world too, their state is indeed of a very high stature.
Oneness is that state which is called attaining God, liberation from bondage etc. In Vedant this state is called Advaita (non-duality). Over here duality merges, separation ends and non-duality takes over. That yearning of oneness is achieved wherein the individual soul represented by the Ganges river, longingly rushes towards God who is the ocean. The confluence of Ganga Sagar (Calcutta, India) is a holy spot. When the union of the individual soul with God as cosmic soul results in non-duality, God becomes a living being and the living being becomes God. Scriptural scholars describe this as Soham, Shivoham, Ayamatma Brahma, Tatvamasi etc. (I am God)
The only way to attain this state is self-surrender. Under such circumstances a devotee renounces all his desires and only yearns for whatever his Lord wishes. As a result there is no more mental agitation due to desires, hopes and the selfish ego. We can never be agitated by delusion and avarice. Narrow minded selfishness is replaced by widespread generosity. By looking upon oneself as the Lords flute one sticks to the Lords holy lips. Like a puppet one gets attached to the puppeteer (God) via a string (devotion). This is self-surrender. It is also called merging into God. A stream merges into the Ganges river and thus itself becomes the river Ganges. A drop prides itself in becoming the ocean after merging into the latter. Wood enters fire and becomes fire. A moth enters a flame and thus surrenders its life to it. In the same way when a devotee renounces his selfish ego, he merges into God. Surrender means seeking shelter at the Lords feet. Over here shelter does not mean protection but it means acting as per the Lords wishes. When iron gets attracted to a magnet, the iron too imbibes the magnets magnetic force. Plants that grow in the vicinity of a sandalwood tree too imbibe the fragrance of sandalwood. Salt when mixed in a glass of water, gives up its separate name and form and thus becomes one with water. When the Lords qualities and glories start manifesting in a devotee, know for sure that the goal of self-surrender has been fully attained.
Amongst the various holy qualities of Savita, when a certain amount of radiance, brilliance and divinity manifest in a devotees character, to that extent self-surrender has been attained.
H) Imagine that one is facing the eastern direction. The early morning golden sun has just risen. Savitas brilliance, Gayatris Vital Force in the form of golden aura pervades the entire cosmos. We are like an aquatic creature in the midst of the ocean of golden light.
I) We must augment our sacred love for the golden Savita who is our beloved idol. Savita is showering us with divine energy, divine force and Brahma Varchas for our material and spiritual well being. Savita yearns to enfold us in its arms represented by the rays of the golden sun.
J) Our soul is totally attached to Savita. Just as when 2 flames are brought closer, they start merging, just as the moth rushes to the flame, just as fragrance becomes one with wind, so too do we merge into Savita. We are becoming one just as wood in fire and a drop of water in the ocean. We are experiencing extraordinary bliss.
2 (A) THE NATURE OF THE FIVE SHEATHS
The 5 sheaths have been looked upon as 5 bodies. 1) Food Sheath is the gross physical body 2) Vital Sheath is the etheric body 3) Mental Sheath is the astral body 4) Intellectual Sheath is the cosmic body 5) Bliss Sheath is the causal body. The physical body can be seen by the gross eyes and can be touched too. Surgery can be performed on it and it can be treated by medicines. Apart from this the other 4 bodies are made of such subtle principles which is although not perceived by our senses yet can be experienced by the intellect. Its existence can be felt via the reactions to the activities of these 4 bodies. The Vital Sheath is that body which is experienced as a ghost after death, which is light energy in form and which has electrical flow in a human being who is alive. The Mental Sheath consists of miraculous achievements due to intellectual greatness in the field of science, art, literature etc.
Prana (Vital Force) is electricity that functions in nerves and cells. Mind is attached to the atoms of the brain. Yet this Vital Force and mind are the independent levels of consciousness which manifest in the central region of the nervous and brain system. On the one hand we experience our soul through the medium of the body, yet the soul exists separately from the body. The Intellectual Sheath is like consciousness which is called Extra-Sensory-Potential (ESP) or sacred sentiments. When the Bliss Sheath is activated we attain self-realization or vision of God. One thus attains the divine eye of a Sthitha Prajna, Jeevan Mukta or Paramhans (saints).
Ordinarily the divine layers of consciousness lie in a dormant state. A very small portion of it is utilized by us in our day to day activities. The remaining portion is like a locked vault full of wealth. It is only when via spiritual practices we attain the necessary spiritual credentials can we avail of these divine glories. When a Father dies, his children inherit all his wealth. Yet this wealth is handed over to his heirs only after they mature and become adults. If these children are not adults, that wealth is kept under lock and key by an appropriate guardian. An entire tree is potentially present in a seed. Yet the tree manifests only after the seed is sown and watered regularly. A living being is like a seed which potentially harbours a gigantic wish-fulfilling tree. This divine glory manifests only when we execute sacred spiritual practices.
The aim of activation of the 5 sheaths is that these 5 intense streams overcome their unconscious state and instead evolve as intense potential and inspiration. The 5 sheaths are present within the 3 bodies. The Food Sheath is equivalent to the gross, physical body. The subtle body is equivalent to the Vital and Mental Sheaths. The causal body is equivalent to the Intellectual and Bliss Sheaths. Classification can be carried out in both ways. The 3 bodies and 5 sheaths are akin to 1 dollar and 100 cents. Twelve months and 1 year is one and the same thing. The same holds true for the 3 bodies and 5 sheaths. The body can be described either as one having head legs, hands etc. or as having blood, urine, heart etc.
According to spiritual seers these 5 bodily sheaths have extraordinary capacity. Just as each sperm can potentially give birth to a child, so too every sheath has the capacity to manifest a divine being. Aladdin along with his lamp had 5 Jinnas at his beck and call who carried out all his commands. In the stories of Vikramaditya there is a description of 5 divinely embodied valiant men. They carried out those tasks which cannot be carried out by ordinary human beings. This is a creation of the soul centre. These valiant men, Jinnas, or divine beings are children produced by our own consciousness. Regarding Shadow beings it is said that if our own shadow is activated by either standing under the hot sun or via a mirror, it carries out those tasks which an embodied servant is known to execute. Shadow beings is nothing but creation of a new personality of our own stature. Via the 5 sheaths we can create 5 shadow beings i.e. 5 powerful personalities. They are like skilled, trusted servants who steadfastly carry out all our commands.
In the above spiritual practice, these sheaths are activated by contacting special centres and entry of Savita energy in Chakras (plexus) via meditation. Every sheath is correlated to a specific Chakra. These Chakras have 2 special skills viz. attraction / imbibing and circulation /generation. Hence they are compared to eddies and cyclones. When any object enters an eddy, it is engulfed by the latter (attraction/imbibing). Any object entering a cyclone first rises up and then is taken away to far off regions (circulation). Due to the influence of Savita energy, both these capacities of the centres augment. On this very basis one can accept divine grace, circulate it in the soul centre, experience others emotions, spread ones own taints etc. Hence while activating/unveiling these sheaths, it is most required that the energy and activities of these centres be included.
Meditate on the fact that due to Savitas sacred light ones inner world is experiencing a dawn like state. Every organ, every sheath is getting activated. By drinking Savita energy, we are becoming radiant and powerful. A variety of divine streams are manifesting in our body.
2 (B) FOOD SHEATH
The Food Sheath is also called the gross, physical body. This is because it is dependent on food for its existence. If this body is deprived of food, it will die instantly. When it gets good/bad food it remains healthy/diseased. Over here food means water and air also. Eatables, water and air together satisfy the needs of the gross body. All 3 together mean food. Thus the gross body that is dependent on food is called the Food Sheath.
Whatever is seen by the gross eye is the well-known sense organ perceivable form of the Food Sheath. It can be seen, known, understood and one can perform surgery on it too. Within it is one more centre called life. This life is an admixture of the soul and the body. As long as both are united a creature continues to live. When these 2 separate a creature dies. As long as the soul is alive we call it a living being. When this state changes it is called either soul or a ghost. Life pervades every pore of the body. It works in every cell, nerve etc. The centre that functions in the cosmic arena carries out its own tasks. Due to its influence stars exist, the world is created/destroyed etc. In the same way the heart, lungs, kidneys etc. carry out their functions as per the directions from the brain centre. Their activities are quite extraordinary in their own way. Its creation, propagation and transformation can only be amazing. Even so all these organs and related units can help in fulfilling the needs of other areas. Just as the various cosmic forces and activities maintain the balance of the cosmos, so too is the case with the human body. Via ecological studies we can understand that the state of the cosmos is akin to some Cosmic God and whatever exists over here, complements one another. In the same way despite our bodily organs and atoms carrying out their specific functions, yet they all contribute to the overall state of the body.
Anatomy is a science that describes the overall designing of the body. When one studies the human body, it is simply amazing how skillfully its creator has designed it. Every organ of the body performs specific functions. Ahead of this is the Science of Physiology. It describes the various functions and nature of various organs of the body. It is the spiritual literature of organs. Thus the science of the human body is covered by Physiology and Anatomy. No doubt the body is studied via scientific apparatus, yet a major portion of it can only be understood by a subtle intellect. It is the philosophical science of the human body. It describes a special centre which can be called spiritual body. The body is made up of 5 elements. This elemental admixture cannot be perceived by the sense organs because it is very subtle in nature. It is certainly not gross.
While deeply studying the above observations, one understands that a mysterious bodily centre does exist. It is the Food Sheath which is classified into 2 parts viz. 1) Gross perceived by the senses and 2) Subtle not perceived by the senses. Both together is called the human body. Anatomy studies only the gross body. Spiritual Sciences are subtle. In the arena of spiritual practices the body is utilized only for purification and maintaining an apt balance. To achieve this one executes Asan, Pranayam, Neti, Dhauti, Basti, Vajroli, Kapalbhati, Brahmacharya, Vrata, Upvaas etc. It is only the subtle philosophy of the above methods that is conjoined to spirituality. The higher stages of spirituality influence consciousness and not so much the gross body. The 5 sheaths are described by Spiritual Sciences. Although the Food Sheath is related to the body, one cannot say that the body only is the Food Sheath. One can only say that the gross aspect of the Food Sheath is the human body.
The Food Sheath described in spiritual practices (meditation / concentration) pertaining to the 5 sheaths can be called Life Body. Lifes very existence cannot be perceived by the senses. It can only be perceived by a very subtle intellect. It is that deep state on which is dependent the state of the human body. Many a time, despite our eating, resting etc. habits being conducive, we undergo ill health and despite medical treatment we remain weak and ill. The cause of this is that taints have entered our Life Body. The eating/resting habits of Yogis generally are such which modern anatomists call dangerous yet they enjoy good health and a long life. The reason is that their Life Body is taintless. It is so well nourished that it cannot be influenced by a major negative attack of movements of Mother Nature. If a layman moves around naked in cold mountainous regions like Himalayas, he will fall sick whereas Yogis dwell naked in such areas without undergoing ill health. Further they eat such herbs etc. which according to modern physicians is not at all nourishing. The fact that despite all this Yogis remain healthy and live a long life proves that their Life Body is so powerful that no negative influence of any kind can shatter them.
Thus in Spiritual Sciences this Life Body is said to be supreme and is discussed under the topic of the Food Sheath. Of course! The gross body too is included in it. Both can be called comparatively as the soul and its body and that they complement one another.
This very subtle portion (Life Body) of the Food Sheath is awakened, nourished, made radiant and purified via various spiritual practices. The more one succeeds in this mission, the more ones body attains the capability of fulfilling the spiritual goal. In order to attain this goal one undergoes spiritual practices pertaining to the Food Sheath along with concentration / meditation.
b) Meditate i.e. mentally visualize that there is a network of the gross body, small /big organs, veins, nerves, muscles etc. All these are made up of small big life bestowing cells. Every cell is an independent unit. Each has its own capability, quality and nature. Make a resolve so as to divinely influence each cell. Its centre is the navel and every organ is subtly conjoined to it. The naval manifests energy akin to an eddy of divine light.
2 (C, D, E) MEDITATION ON THE MANIFESTATION OF SAVITA
Savita energy is used in the activation of the Food Sheath. The 5 sheathed spiritual practice is a high statured Yogic practice of Gayatri Meditation. Mother Gayatri encompasses Gayatri Mantra and its chanting. It is also called Mother of Vedas because she is the Mother of Vedic knowledge which in turn is the substratum of knowledge and wisdom. Gayatri is the very life force of Savita. In high leveled Gayatri worship, Savita energy is made use of. It is with the help of Savita that one awakens the 5 sheaths. In the activation of the Food Sheath, Savita energy is invoked.
In the preliminary steps of meditation, Savita is re-instated in the psyche as an idol, goal, icon and god. One establishes an inseparable bond of oneness with Savita. In the spiritual practice of the Food Sheath, via meditation / concentration, Savita energy is invoked in the gross and Life Body.
The central point of the gross body is said to be the navel. A mother nourishes her foetus in the uterus via the navel area and hence it is the preliminary face. The head and heart are the leading organs of the physical body but the centre of the Life Body is the navel region. In Ayurvedic nerve examination, the centre of the nervous system is said to be the axis of the gross body. Yogic (subtle) nerves too emanate from this area. The navel is said to be the central point because it is exactly in the middle of the body. The axis of any object is always in the middle.
A body is said to be alive only if heat is present in it. A dead body becomes very cold. One digests food due to the heat present in the stomach. Blood circulation too depends on the presence of heat. It is this all- pervasive heat that fights various illnesses. It bestows zest and zeal. It is called radiance. Sun is the centre of fire that pervades earth. If the sun starts cooling, earth too will follow in its footsteps. It is this life bestowing fire that imbues attractiveness to the human body, that brightens our eyes, that induces various activities in the body. The moment this heat diminishes, our bodies will start withering. One will feel sad and lifeless. When there is lack of vitality in lethargic /indolent men despite everything else being alright, it becomes the main cause of bodily weakness and immaturity.
In meditation/concentration methods of the Food Sheath, Savita energy enters the entire gross body and Life Body via the navel. Faith is converted into energy. The magnetic force of mental resolves (Sankalpas) is extraordinary. Within meditation the union of faith and resolve is that principle which attracts material comforts and divine powers of the subtle world. If the level of meditation is merely wayward imagination, its result too will be mediocre. As against this if this sentimental image is imbibed with deep faith and trust, its result will be that Savita energy will enter the entire body via the Nabhi (navel) Chakra which is also called Agni Chakra.
If this meditation is rooted in deep faith, it will manifest both immediate and far off positive consequences. Due to meditation, heat augments in the body and breathing and blood circulation too become intense. Later too one feels as though bodily movements have become more intense. One overcomes sadness and zest and zeal are on the rise.
Meditation helps circulate Savita energy in the entire body, radiates our Life Body and induces vitality in our character. One feels like putting in that bit of extra effort when one wishes to attain fame and self-contentment. Any activity can be deemed successful only if the activity gains glory and the doer attains respect. This state is achieved via proper planning. It is further aided by subtle inspiration which induces vitality in the inner personality. External actions many time seem burdensome and due to lack of inner zeal, one faces failure. As against this if ones inner inspiration augments, one easily marches towards the desired goal. The first leg of progress hence is inner inspiration and zest.
Savita energy enters the Food Sheath and makes it fire-like or like radiant heat. This sort of meditation/concentration on Savita gives extraordinary soul based experiences. Of course! These are not mere inspiration of the soul because behind it is also ones deep thinking that attracts important cosmic powers towards itself with the help of magnetic forces. This can actually be experienced by a spiritual seeker.
(C) Savita energy is entering the navel in the form of sharp radiations. It incites the navel plexus (nabhi chakra) and an intense light manifests. One must experience that it is being circulated in the entire body.
(D, E, F) Savita energy is transforming the body into conscious energy of fire. It is pervading the entire body in the form of a stream of light. The body feels like a ball of fire. Every unit of the body manifests divine imprints. Every organ oozes with light, zest and hard work.
2 (F) THE VITAL FORCE SHEATH
The Vital Sheath is that portion of the subtle body which is akin to a storehouse of electricity. The human body too is a machine. Machines function with the help of energy obtained from coal, steam, oil, electricity etc. In ancient times this energy was obtained from human beings, beasts etc. and hence we use the word horse power. The human body has so many screws / nails etc. that if one starts counting these units, it will number to billions of them. These units unite to form organs which in turn amazingly carry out various functions. Its movements are due to a special kind of bodily electricity. It is special because although it is similar to material electricity (machines etc.) yet it possesses some original qualities. Hence it is called Vital Force electricity. In Spiritual Science it is called Prana i.e. Vital Force. It is this special force that helps all organs of our body like the heart, stomach etc. to carry out specific functions.
The science of machines used in factories etc. is of its own kind. Grossly it is seen that material electricity and machines work in tandem, yet it has its own special existence and independent science. No doubt machines and electricity work in tandem yet one can easily visualize their independent existence. With the help of vital electricity, all the units of the body execute their functions. Hence it can be understood to have merged into the bodily principle. Despite this vital electricity is said to be a special type of potential. It pervades the entire body and its light and influence externally is limited to a certain periphery. The earths force of magnetism works within it and it spreads outside to quite far off regions. Planets, stars etc. are bound to one another due to this magnetic pull and on this basis a lot of important give and take takes place amongst them. In this manner the work arena of vital electricity is both within the body and outside too. The periphery of vital electricity that is spread out both within and outside the body is called Vital Sheath.
Brain anatomists know fully well that the nervous system, akin to a spiders web that spreads out in the entire body, is conjoined to the brain and they carry messages akin to telephonic wires. If there is ever a slight movement in any part of the body, its message is received by the brain and the latter in turn takes a quick decision and solves the problem by sending the solution to those affected bodily parts. If an ant bites us in the leg, the message reaches the brain and the brain tells the hands to scratch it so as to get relief. All this takes place in the span of a few microseconds. That energy which helps the brain and nervous system to function smoothly is called vital electricity. That portion of the brain which thinks, reflects etc. is said to be conscious in nature. Those activities that are carried out continuously within the body is under the jurisdiction of the unconscious mind. Examples of this are blood circulation, breathing process, contraction/relaxation of muscles, digestion etc. Vital electricity helps both the conscious and unconscious mind to function smoothly. This electricity not only controls brain activities, but also those of the entire body. This vital electricity is measured via EEG in the brain and ECG in the heart. Ordinarily it is experienced as heat in the body. Its result is bodily movements.
It is only when the measure and balance of vital electricity is appropriate that one experiences mental equipoise. As against this if there is some problem, ones bodily organs do not function aptly and many diseases manifest. Medicines can overcome chemical aberrations because they too are made up of chemicals and thus are working in a known arena. As against this diseases that are the result of vital electricity imbalance are very rarely cured by medicines. In fact doctors label these diseases as incurable and thus accept defeat. If the vital electricity of these diseases is corrected one can overcome these diseases. There are many schools of mesmerism which influence vital electricity and this cures various diseases. Generally diseases pertaining to the brain and nervous system are the result of imbalance seen in vital electricity.
Bodily zest and mental zeal is generally dependent on the state and balance of vital electricity. When the balance tilts towards the higher end, man becomes agitated and hyperactive. If the balance tilts towards the lower end, the reactions are self-rejection, inferiority complex, sadness, sense of fear, suspicion etc. When the vital electricity is aptly balanced, the face is lustrous, the eyes are bright, the mind is zestful, the mind is enterprising, actions are enthusiastic etc. In one word it can be called brilliance. In Spiritual Science it is called Tejas. It is nothing but the equipoise nature of vital electricity. Light spread out around any individual is called aura. It is generally more intense near the face. Generally we see photographs of saints, God etc. with the sun-like a halo behind their heads. It is nothing but a symbol of divine aura.
So far we have dealt with the brief and partial description of vital electricity that flows within our body. Now we will talk about the activities of this electricity that works outside the body. We all know about the good/bad reactions that ensue when we establish contacts with external objects. This contact is sometimes ordinary and sometimes very intense. In fact when creatures contact one another, they are in fact establishing a give and take nexus of this vital electricity. Fire influences nearby objects and heats them up too. Ice too influences objects that are close by. Depending on the inner radiance of an individual, mans vital electricity influences either a small or a bigger area that surrounds him. Other creatures who contact this vital electricity get influenced in some way or the other. Radiant people can easily influence others and their character is imbibed by others. In the hermitages of great Rishis, a cow and tiger would drink water from the same pond without any malice towards each other. Radiant men can thus influence men, beasts, birds and even inert objects and places. This is also the basis of greatness of pilgrim spots. Over there at one time dwelt a great individual and his/her influence is seen even during contemporary times. No doubt as time goes by the influence could diminish, yet the influence of living legends is seen in people who are in contact with them. The influence of a prostitutes attraction for lust, terrorists terror, sacred influence of great men etc. transforms the psyche of those coming in contact with them either positively or negatively. This is the miraculous result of vital electricity.
Many beliefs of our ancient culture encouraged people to ward off the negative influence of vital electricity and instead benefit from its positive influence. At that time these beliefs were useful but today they have become dry tradition. In fact because it has taken up the distorted form of blind tradition, they are not only useless but a source of danger too. The disparity in the form of touchable and untouchable was made so as to encourage good qualities and shunning bad qualities. This reason was also applicable to which person should be asked to cook and serve food and which set of people were to be avoided. On this very basis a suitable groom was chosen for a bride and vice-versa. If they are not matched aptly, the vital electricity runs far ahead with great speed and when a high charactered person contacts a low charactered person, the former looses his/her vital electricity. In Indian culture when one associates with great saints and bows down to them by touching their hallowed feet, one is actually imbibing sacred vital electricity from the saint.
A person who is full of austerities and whose vital electricity is radiant, can change the very nature of his/her environment. During summer, heat in various objects augments. During monsoons the atmosphere is wet. During winter the atmosphere is cold. In the same way great saints influence the atmosphere while they are alive and thus transforms the psyche of world humanity. Like great men, vile men too have vile vital electricity and they too influence creatures who come in contact with them. The vital electricity of both great and vile men attack one another in space. This fight is nothing but the eternal battle between the demi-gods and demons.
In order to nourish the body, in order to ward off diseases etc. one makes use of various methods. The functional arena of the vital body is much more gigantic than that of the gross body. Its importance and influence too is greater. Even if a very weak, diseased body (physical) has a very potent Vital Force, such a person may be ill or one with a very short life span like Adi Shankaracharya, yet such a person will carry out superhuman tasks. As against this if the physical body is very strong but the vital body is extremely weak, one can be compared to a living skeleton i.e. ultimately it is almost lifeless.
Vital Force (Prana) means life. When it leaves the human body, one is said to be dead. This dead body starts stinking almost immediately when the Vital Force leaves it. It is found in the cosmos as a cosmic Vital Force. One can imbibe this force as per ones capacity. After death, it is the Vital Sheath that appears as a ghost. Vital Force Science is the Science of Converting the Vital Sheath into a powerhouse of the Super Vital Force and also the attainment of miraculous results of vital electricity. In Kathopanishad (Indian Vedic text) Nachiketa, a spiritual seeker, was taught the Science of Vital Force Fire (Pranagni Vidya). This very spiritual practice of Vital Force Sheath is an important leg of Yogic scriptures. Via various techniques of Prana Yoga one is trying to attain this goal. In Brahmavarchas methods i.e. within the concentration/ meditation practices of the Vital Sheath, one can amazingly attain the goal.
Meditate on the fact that within the body lies a divine electricity circulation arrangement. Vital electricity flows in every atom of the body. The entire body overflows with this miraculous force. The bodily centre of this flow is Mooladhar Chakra. Over there lies a self-illumining whirlpool of divine Vital Force. Along with the speed of the eddy, its streams are emitted and reach out to all parts of the body.
2 ( G, H, I) MEDITATION ON SAVITA MANIFESTATION
Electricity runs in all wires of a machine, yet the machine is controlled by a starter or switch. A lock is akin to a machine but it is opened and closed with a key that is inserted into a key-hole. Although food after digestion is sent to all parts of the body, it is eaten only via the mouth. Similarly the Vital Sheath is a complete body but it is controlled by the Mooladhar Chakra.
Mooladhar Chakra lies in the middle area of the urinary and anus opening. It is not attached to the skin and is found deeply embedded in the anal cave measuring 3 fingers. It means it lies close to the ultimate bone region of the Merudand (subtle spine). At a gross level one finds some nerve networks, plexuses, hormonal glands and vaginal area. But none of these can be called the Mooladhar Chakra. Chakras (plexus) are subtle. They cannot be seen by our gross eyes which can see other material objects. Only on the basis of various observations can one prove the existence of Chakras (plexus) and pinpoint their function. In those regions where these Chakras are found, the activities of subtle bodily parts present in that area are similar to those of the Chakras. This is akin to a sandalwood tree which lends its fragrance to surrounding areas. Nervous networks of the plexus body are found near the Merudand (subtle spine). Many call them Chakras, yet it is not true. They are important parts of the subtle body and is a centre of subtle energy. Mooladhar Chakra is one of them.
The central point of the Vital Body is the Mooladhar Chakra. It is also the door that leads one to the Vital Sheath. Over here door means the focal point that unites the micro (individual) and macro (cosmos). Just as a foetus during pregnancy is conjoined to its mother via the umbilical cord, so too these Chakras are the conjoining region in the form of doorways that unite the micro (individual) and macro (cosmos). Just as an atom rotates around its axis, so too this Chakra moves on its own axis like an eddy current. Just as during summer, an agitated flow of hot air creates cyclones etc., so too is the movement of these Chakras. As a result of this speedy revolution, an energy centre is created. With its help, many divine and extraordinary tasks are executed.
In the meditation/concentration practices of Vital Sheath, one imagines that Savita energy enters the entire Vital Sheath via the Mooladhar Chakra and pervades it. Since Prana (Vital Force) is akin to electrical energy, the nature of Savita energy in the Vital Sheath is akin to an electrical force. One must imagine that Savitas electrical energy after uniting with the bodily energy, magnifies its potency infinite fold. The entire Vital Force is pervaded by electricity and it is akin to a powerhouse of electricity. In spiritual parlance vital electricity is called Tejas. A spiritual seeker meditates on the fact that a flow of electrical energy that manifests from Savita is moving in every particle, nerve and pore of his body. The soul is pervaded by vital electricity and thus it radiates brightly. This divine electricity becomes radiant and thus our character and personality blooms. This augmented vital electricity activates our zest and zeal and induces us to give high statured cooperation to others.
During schedules of meditation/concentration pertaining to the Vital Sheath, one deepens ones faith with reference to Savita energy intensifying its manifestation in ones inner being. This is not some dry, wayward imagination and is in reality a fact. If such sacred sentiments are united with deep faith, a spiritual seeker will actually experience the intense manifestation of the vital principle.
The final leg of concentration is completed via an awakened soul based inspiration. The direction given is Awakened Vital Sheath, awakened Mooladhar Chakra, awakened vital electricity, awakened aura, awakened zest, awakened zeal. These should not be merely chanted. In fact with steadfastness, directly experience that truly all the above mentioned principles have awakened.
Meditate Mooladhar Chakra is the centre of circulation of bodily electricity, the light of Goddess Savita enters in the form of sharp rays of divine light. As a result there is an intense manifestation of divine vital electricity. It is circulated in the entire body. The vital light is sacredly influencing every pore. The psyche exudes radiance, aura and daring. As a result one gets the capacity to do anything for the sake of sacred ideals.
2 (J) THE MENTAL SHEATH
The Mental Sheath also includes the intellect and psyche along with the mind. Apart from this is a fourth unit called ego. This ego is included in the Intellectual Sheath. Over here ego does not mean arrogance or high handedness but it means doership i.e. the feeling of I and mine.
The mind imagines, the intellect analyzes and then draws an apt conclusion. On the basis of repeated actions by the psyche, certain habits manifest which are called psychic imprints. All these 3 together form the Mental Sheath. Ordinarily the consolidated effect of the conscious/ unconscious activities of the brain is called the Mental Sheath. With great caution, the Creator has protected the brain along with its family of consciousness in a cave-like skull.
The gateway is said to be the Ajna Chakra. It is said to be in the centre of the 2 eyebrows. It is also called the third eye. The third eye of Goddess Durga and Lord Shiva has been depicted in various images at this very spot. The third eye is a symbol of farsightedness. Generally people lack far sight. For minor material gains they shun spiritual progress. They carry out undesirable tasks which then creates a destiny (in future lives) full of pain and sorrow. Farsightedness induces a person to become like a farmer, student, gardener, wrestler, businessman etc. who initially undergo a lot of hardships but later reap rich dividends. If any one attains this farsightedness, he/she will make apt use of material and spiritual gains and thus they can glorify their lives.
Generally, the third eye is depicted in photographs of Lord Shankar. It is said that sexual passion tried to induce His downfall. Hence Lord Shankar opened His third eye and burnt sexual passion to ashes. This can be correlated to lack of farsightedness leading to attraction for those fleeting sense pleasures which seem vain when one attains the power of Viveka (discrimination). When we know something is dangerous, we tend to stay away from it. Just as Lord Shiva warded off pain by burning the Lord of sexual passion (Kama-deva) to ashes, so too a person full of farsightedness will protect himself from undesirable attractions. Generally this third eye remains closed and thus the aim of concentration /meditation of the Mental Sheath is to awaken this third eye. It appears to be a minor thing, yet it is nothing less than attainment of supernatural powers.
The Ajna Chakra is correlated to the optic chiasma, pituitary gland and pineal gland. These glands are in a deeper recess that lies between the eye-brows. The hormones emitted by these glands influence very important centres of the body. In fact they also control hormonal secretion of other glands. Its mature or immature state can induce good or bad reactions in the body. Ordinarily despite the acceptance that these mysterious glands and their secretions are very important, they are said to be beyond human control. No such solution has been found wherein the state of these glands can be balanced or improved via human effort. If it were true that a solution has been found, man would become a master of his character, fate and future.
Scientific researches of the soul and great seer Yogis have found that one can influence not only the brain but also the mind and other parts of the body. Such influences can transform those regions. On attainment of focused power of resolve (Sankalp Shakti) and capacity to incite, this task becomes simpler and easily possible. This power of control and capacity to influence (incite) is attained via deep meditation (Dhyan Yoga). A wayward mind, steam spread out in all directions and unloaded bullet are of no use at all. But when all of them are focused aptly at a central point, their potential is gigantic. Focused steam helps run a train and also one can cook food with a pressure cooker. Light focused at one point can manifest fire. A loaded bullet aimed at a spot can destroy it to pieces. Via mediation we can focus our thought waves at a central point and thus we gain immense soul force. If this soul force is made use of for beneficial tasks, it will be a great boon for the entire world. All these benefits have been listed in religious texts.
With the help of Yoga of Meditation we can utilize our focused power of resolve on any bodily organ and thus ward off its weaknesses and diseases. Thus this organ will become more powerful and potent. By influencing the Mental Sheath via meditation / concentration, we can augment the intellectual capacity and radiance of the brain. Further we can manifest latent potential of any of its special centre and ward off their distortions. Just as the needle of an injection can prick any part of the body, in the same way via Yoga of Meditation we can use our focused power of resolve for gigantic tasks, which cannot be executed by human beings. This sort of success is said to be divine and superhuman because those very tasks are executed which are beyond human control.
The Mental Sheath is the region of thought. It includes layers called conscious, unconscious and superconscious. Generally the centre of thought energy is said to be the brain, yet it spreads out in the entire body. The brain via its inspiration activates it and induces it to carry out various tasks. When there is an apt tandem between the brain based inspiration and the widespread consciousness in the entire body, the deep recess of all organs very easily satisfy the aspirations of the brain. Thus it becomes the basis of fulfillment of desires. As against this if there is lack of cooperation, the organs do not help in fulfillment of the aspirations of the brain. We all face the difficulty of not having the capacity to control our bodily movements. We realize that we cannot control other beings, but when our own body is controlled by our brain, why cant we control the brain in turn? The cause of this ironic situation is lack of mutual cooperation. A worker makes full use of his bosss weakness and thus spreads the net of indiscipline. This holds true for our body (servant) and the mind (boss) too. Via spiritual practices pertaining to the Mental Sheath, we can overcome unruliness of the mind and replace it with a very pure disciplined one. Victory over the self (mind) is equivalent to victory over the world. Mental control is the very soul of Yogic power. One who masters his sense organs is called a miraculous Yogic Sidha. With the help of powerful arms one can carry out gigantic tasks. With the help of wealth power one can buy a lot of material comfort. Everyone is aware of all this. Despite all this the miracles of mental control is way high. Spiritual practices of the Mental Sheath helps one attain a multi-faceted mental force. It is altogether a different story if one wants to program a special centre of the brain for some material task. This can be achieved via school education or under the watchful eye of a specialist. As against this if one wants to evolve ones mind to higher levels, there is no other option but spiritual practices pertaining to the Mental Sheath. All these practices are subtle in nature.
We all are aware that the bodily power of the Food Sheath and the vital power of the Vital Sheath helps in making our lives joyous and progressive. The high statured will power attained after purifying the mind has even greater potential. Generally will power is thought of as daring, yet it should aptly be looked upon as that which makes the all-pervasive mental force of the body, great and radiant. This advancement is such a manifestation of the deep recesses of ones personality which makes man cultured and is thought of by others as one who has attained superconsciousness. The subtle bodies are progressively more important than the visible bodies. Ahead of the bodies made up of food and Vital Force is the body made up of ones mind. Spiritual practices pertaining to the mind are even more potent than those of the body. The body is a vehicle and the mind is its driver. Knowers of this fact will easily realize the greater importance of concentration / meditation carried out so as to evolve the mind further.
(J) Experience that every unit/cell of the body is pervaded by the mental principle and aspiration thought based elements. It is conjoined to the brain and Ajna Chakra (in the middle of the eye brows). Experience that a divine eddy has manifested from this centre and from it, thought waves are emitted that pervade the entire body.
2 (K, L, M) MEDITATING ON SAVITAS MANIFESTATION
From the standpoint of designing, electrical apparatus seem compact, yet in order that it actually functions, electricity from outside has to be supplied to it. The body is compact, yet food/energy from external sources is required for its nourishment. The body certainly is compact, yet in order to manifest its special potential, important resources from the external world are required. The inner strength of a seed blooms with the help of water, fertilizer etc. In order to manifest high leveled radiance in an individuals consciousness, one needs the assistance of divine consciousness. This goal is fulfilled via various Yogic spiritual practices. The more one strengthens ones bond with God, greater is the bond of give and take between them. Sun is an idol created by divinity. Its conscious state is called Savita. From the standpoint of worship, the Sun is incomparable as far as being a very taintless, inspiring symbol of divinity. Over here there is no dilemma of sectarian differences. Thus Savita is an apt medium which is the basis of an all-encompassing method of devotion.
One imagines Savita entering the Mental Sheath via the Ajna Chakra. It then enters the brain and spreads out in the entire body. While one is meditating one experiences that the entire thought arena of the soul is filled up with Savitas light and energy. Ones body becomes hot if exposed to sunlight and similarly situations of joy induce zest in the mind. All these situations can be directly experienced. One must make efforts to directly experience these special qualities attained due to entry of Savita energy in the Mental Sheath. If one has intense faith in ones spiritual practice, one will directly experience the true entry of Savita energy in the devotional arena. We all know how gleeful are people who drink alcohol. We also know the effect of ghosts who enter bodies of human beings. So too is the experience of Savita energy entering ones soul and Mental Sheath which is very clear-cut. All this does not happen accidentally. It is not as though a spiritual seeker sits in a dumb posture and that a divine power manifests in his body on its own. In order that the holy river Ganges manifests on earth, Bhagirath had to perform intense austerities. In order that ones devotional attitude be led to a higher level, it is required that a spiritual seeker carries out intense spiritual practices. In order to learn the art of painting, one attends primary classes which seem very foolish to an accomplished artist. Yet only intense efforts can make one a good painter. This holds true for painting a picture of ones chosen idol in the mind. It is indeed stupid to expect that on day one of our spiritual endeavor, we will see a very clear picture of our idol on our mental screen. Such a thing never happens and such desires only end in despair. The Science of meditating on ones idol (painting the picture in the mind) is nothing but spiritual penance. One has to continuously put in extra effort. In the beginning stages one is unable to see the idol clearly on the mental screen (while meditating) but slowly but surely the picture becomes clearer and clearer. Ultimately the picture becomes so clear which is akin to the one aspired for by a childish spiritual seeker on day one of his meditation.
When Savita energy enters the Mental Sheath, one actually experiences that area overflowing with Savita. It becomes illumined. The state of the soul is akin to a gigantic powerhouse of light. The nature of visible light is converted to divine wisdom or Prajna in the devotional arena. Light and Prajna are one single principle. Its nature is light and quality is wisdom. When Savita energy enters the Mental Sheath it means that consciousness attains divine wisdom (Prajna). It is pervaded by Ritambhara (divine intellect). This is how Savita manifests in the Mental Sheath. This state can also be called awakening of Viveka i.e. discrimination and its balance. Savita manifestation in the Mental Sheath means conversion of these sentiments into deep faith, i.e. establishing faith, belief and aspiration in the inner being. This is the goal of concentration / meditation pertaining to the Mental Sheath.
Awakened directions are imbibed as though one has actually attained them. There is no past or future tense because only the present exists. Thus awakening pertains only to the present tense. Mental Sheath awakened, Ajna Chakra awakened, third eye awakened, light of wisdom awakened, divine wisdom (Prajna) awakened, discrimination awakened, balance awakened. Along with these directions one should experience that the awakening is entirely in the present. It is not necessary that awakening is total and that its total influence will be seen immediately. This is because it can be partial and stepwise too. When the moon is waxing on the 2 nd night, it seems small in size but later it waxes to fullness on a full moon day. In the same way the program of awakening of the Mental Sheath along with meditation/concentration marches ahead slowly and steadily.
Savita energy enters the Ajna Chakra in the form of pointed rays of light. Intensity seen in the whirlpool of the Chakra- a vision of divine light, radiation of light, it spreads in the entire head region. The blaze of Prajna (divine intellect) enters every pore of the brain, our mental resolve (Sankalpa) becomes firm, potent thoughts are circulated in the entire body, the mind principle pervades the entire body, ones thinking radiates brightly.
2 (N) THE INTELLECTUAL SHEATH
The Food Sheath, Vital Force Sheath and Mental Sheath are at the level of nature (Prakriti). They are related to the human body. Although all 3 of them are conscious, their consciousness is woven with the body. They exist due to the help of the 5 great elements (earth, water, fire, wind, space). On the basis of chemical and molecular activities of the 5 gross elements, that part of consciousness moves which is visible in the above mentioned 3 sheaths. On the basis of the measure of objects and their state, they get influenced. The Food Sheath withers if it does not get food. The Vital Force Sheath weakens if it does not get a conducive atmosphere. Ones thought process staggers if the mental arena is influenced by alcohol, drugs, chloroform, unconsciousness etc. Good food nourishes the body, encouragement enlivens the Vital Force and education brightens ones mind. It is hence clear that although all 3 are conscious in nature, principally they are dependent on material nature i.e. Prakriti. The sense organs are conjoined to these 3 sheaths. They experience joy /sorrow in tandem with objects and circumstances that they encounter. From the standpoint of convenience it can also be called gross. After death the Vital Force Body becomes a ghost. Higher in stature are Pitrus (ancestors) whose subtle bodies are made up of the Mental Sheath. Ghosts are lower in stature, they are ferocious and lack peace. Pitrus are compassionate, full of discrimination and cooperative. All these 3 bodies can be pinpointed in some way or the other via our sense organs and scientific technology. Our physical body is made up of the 5 elements. The subtle portions of the 5 elements called Tanmatras create the Vital and Mental Bodies. Hence the above mentioned 3 bodies are said to be a part of material nature and their consciousness is classified as gross.
The subtle category has 2 bodies Intellectual and Bliss. They have a relationship with the subtle world and divine consciousness. The creation of Intellectual Sheath is most suited for give and take with the subtle world. It predominates with divine sentiments. The luscious experience of the Principle of Love is Supreme. No other aspect of life or the world can give so much bliss. Hence Divine Love is equivalent to God Almighty. This Divine Love manifests in various ways like oneness of soul, unity, affection, compassion, friendship, generosity etc. On the basis of an individual and circumstances, its flow and forms are varied. Although the measure of love for a wife, son, mother etc. is the same, ones nature of behavior varies with all of them. Behavioral variations are clear-cut when we express joy on seeing happy people and sorrow on seeing unhappy people. In reality it is a sensation of sympathy. Love dwells in ones heart. When we speak of gentlemanliness, oneness of heart etc. we correlate it to the bosom. Thus the Intellectual Sheath encompasses the heart and centre of sacred sentiments.
At the level of barter, the relationship between 2 men depends on selfish give and take. As against this a deep bond with another soul has its basis in ones inner sensitivity. A prostitutes relationship is dependent on money and it begins, evolves and ends for the same reason too. As against this the relationship between a mother and her child, that between a husband and wife is totally on the basis of an unselfish bond. This is called sacred sentiment. The etiquette that we see in society is merely social wiliness whereas oneness of soul is very deep and pure. Its source is ones heart /bosom. Hence it is called love and is labeled sacred and supreme akin to Almighty God.
Over here we should note that when we use the word heart, it has nothing to do with the heart (a bag of blood) as described by Anatomy. Instead it means a centre of sacred sentiments. Since the centre of the Intellectual Sheath is somewhere near the anatomical heart, it is called heart. In spiritual parlance light means wisdom. It is not the brilliance of light. Thus when we use the word light no misconception should creep in and neither should the heart be looked upon as an organ that circulates blood. In fact they are only symbols.
The Intellectual Sheath is correlated to the Hriday Chakra (Heart Plexus). It is also called Brahma Chakra. It is aptly named thus because it flows in the direction of divine consciousness. The Lord is attained via devotion. It is devotion which helps unite a living being (Jiva) with God. The initial form of devotion is faith. Faith is a root and devotion is a stem. Intense love for piousness is called faith and devotion encompasses sacred sentiments like compassion, service, generosity etc. This devotion could be towards God or towards sacred ideals. Where there is an apt basis for the principle of faith, there one can be devoted to individuals or objects too. Via the medium of pilgrim spots, idols of God etc., one can augment ones devotion towards preceptors, great saints etc. In this manner after devotion to God commences, it can evolve further as attachment to God. In order to establish faith in a steadfast manner, Viveka (discrimination) is of great help. Initially a test is carried out as to whether a particular individual or object is apt for the purpose of faith. When the test says that greatness exists, faith augments by leaps and bounds. When attachment to God is the result of lack of proper thinking or done in frenzy or when someone incites us to do so, it never remains steady. In the absence of rationality, only blind faith manifest and it is wavering and unsteady. Blind faith executes tasks that are vain and useless and only faith full of rationality and discrimination can result in high leveled renunciation and sacrifice.
In the material world love is correlated to sexual attraction and attachment but in reality these are mere shadows of love. True love is the divine energy of high leveled sacred sentiments conjoined to the Intellectual Sheath. It is also called God. It is the ocean of divine succulence. It can be directly experienced as faith and devotion and is akin to absolute truth. The result of distorted faith is akin to a snake in a rope or a ghost in woods. The miracle of faith results in manifestation of God in an idol. Aspiration and steadfastness are those legs of faith which mould our character. When the Bhagwad Geeta author says ones character is equivalent to ones faith he is absolutely right. Our character is not dependent on bones, herb, education etc. but depends on our faith, steadfastness and trust pertaining to our self, our aspirations and our beliefs. Thus this Hriday Chakra or the Intellectual Sheath is called the seed and substratum of an entire individual. In fact the Food Sheath, Vital Force Sheath and Mental Sheath are merely its decorative coverings.
Magnetism that manifests from a purified Intellectual Sheath helps us attract divine principles from the subtle world and thus help fill up our souls with the same. It is the force of divine sentiments that help attract divine principles. Thus devotion and love are the basis of soul progress. Via devotion to the preceptor and Gods idol one attains the goal of devotion to divinity. All successes like attainment of divine forces and God depends on the magnetism of sacred sentiments pertaining to the Intellectual Sheath. All the Poojas, worship rites, austerities, spiritual practices etc carried out in order to attain various Sidhis (divine powers and glories) have only one goal in mind and that is to ripen the faith of a spiritual seeker. The more it intensifies, the more one attains boons etc. of divine worlds (called Lokas). A radiant Intellectual Sheath of the Hriday Chakra makes man a Rishi, Superhuman, divine soul and God Himself.
Just like the visible world, the subtle world is conjoined to the Intellectual Sheath. All movements of the gross world depend on the movements of the subtle world. Although an entire tree is present in a seed and an entire human being is present in a sperm, we fail to see both of them. In the same way the subtle world is the very life of the gross world. In tandem with ones inner aspirations function our bodily activities. In the same way our worlds past and future are present in the subtle world. In the gross world we perceive a very hazy portion of the present and that too only with the help of our sense organs. In fact a major portion of it is not perceived. The subtle world is like a vast ocean. The gross world can be termed as merely a few superficial waves of the subtle world. Ordinarily our activities and knowledge are restricted to the gross world, yet if the Intellectual Sheath is potent enough, we can see and understand all the movements of the subtle world and thus be well-informed of past and future events. Our divine sight can see far off things, events etc. and also that which is invisible or unperceived by or sense organs. This divine potential is also called ESP or Extra-Sensory Potential. (especially in Neurobiology). Sidhas (realized saints) possess many extraordinary qualities. They not only gain knowledge of the circumstances and possible events of the subtle world, but they have the power of influencing them too. Curses result in adverse circumstances and booms result in conducive circumstances. It is the gigantic effort of Sidhas (saints) which helps in influencing the subtle world for the welfare of all.
A living being is so greatly attracted by the material comforts of the gross world that he agrees to dwell in his body which is nothing but a rotten bag of urine, stools etc. At the time of death no one gives up the body voluntarily and in fact fears death. An individual soul volunteers to enter the painful cycle of birth and death again and again because it wishes to taste the so called joyous experiences of the material world and its fleeting objects. The joy of the subtle world along with its experiences is infinitely more than that of the gross world. Those who relate to the subtle world, those who see it, experience it, taste joys akin to heaven. These people have so many divine glories (Vibhootis) that they share it with those who are in need. Hence they themselves remain happy and bestow joy on others too.
The centre of the Intellectual Sheath is the Hriday Chakra. It is easy for the soul consciousness present in the whirlpool of the Chakra to merge into divine consciousness. These attainments are such that they supercede everything else.
Meditate on the fact that subtle waves of an eddy of divine light within the heart pervade every pore of the body and that this divine light is spreading in every corner of interstellar space.
2 (O, P, Q) MEDITATION ON SAVITA MANIFESTATION
In the concentration /meditation pertaining to the Intellectual Sheath one imagines that Savita energy is manifesting via the Hriday Chakra. One experiences that Savita energy is manifesting in every nook and corner of the Intellectual Sheath. Savita is said to be the centre of light and energy. Wherever Savita enters, there those these potential manifest. One realizes that the Intellectual Sheath is being illumined and it is more powerful than what it was before. During meditation one must experience that the Intellectual Sheath is full of light and power.
In the Intellectual Sheath Savita is said to be light in form and is called Deepti. Deepti is that stream of divine light which is full of the power of inspiration. Brahmavarchas is divine power and Atmavarchas is soul power. Deepti is Savitavarchas. It is full of light and inspiration. Ordinarily it can be called Prana or Vital Force. Of course! It is much greater than inspiration. Inspiration does give a sense of direction to ones life yet Varchas has that radiance which has the intense power to push /incite us towards a sacred direction. Apart from experiencing the Intellectual Sheath as a ball of Savita, or a store house of Savita, one imagines Deepti circulating in every pore and every cell of the body.
Deepti influences the Intellectual Sheath in 2 ways- one in the form of divine sentiments and two in the form of extra-sensory knowledge. Extra-sensory knowledge is divine vision and divine sentiments can be called oneness of heart. Due to the inspiration of Deepti, good will augments and pious emotions like oneness of heart manifest. One should deepen this type of faith in ones inner being. Pain should be experienced when others are in sorrow joy should be experienced when others are happy. Thus the precept All are mine, I belong to all is strengthened in ones psyche. Hence narrow minded selfishness gets transformed into a sense of well-being of all creatures. Such a faith when intensified gives us proof of self-progress and advancement.
While concentrating / meditating one should nurture the belief that the soul based existence of the Intellectual Sheath is a citizen of the subtle world. In that country it attains the right to reside and carry out business and other types of give and take. Each citizen of his country benefits from his countrys progress and he himself contributes to its advancement. In the same way the more one activates ones Intellectual Sheath, the more ones level of membership of the subtle world advances. On the basis of that progress one can attain lesser or greater benefits of the subtle world. Extraordinary knowledge gets awakened sometimes in an individual without any effort on his part simply due to the psychic imprints (sanskars) of past lives. There are people whose extra-sensory Potential (ESP) awakens without carrying out any special spiritual practices. Yet all these are exceptions. With intense effort via spiritual practices of self-advancement, one can manifest divine energy called Savita in the Intellectual Sheath. Such individuals live in this material world like indwellers of other divine worlds (DevaLokas). Thus they are honored and revered by one and all.
The powerhouse of Savita energy enters the Hriday Chakra, the aura of Chakra whirlpool augments, divine sentiments are circulated in the entire psyche. There is direct contact of the vibration of the subtle world with the Hriday Chakra experience that a give and take bond has been established. Experience that your soul pervades in infinite existence (God). Oneness of heart, faith, divine wisdom are evolving further. The body experiences love, affection and compassion in the form of horripliation.
2 (R) THE BLISS SHEATH
The Bliss Sheath is that level of consciousness in which is experienced ones true nature. Due to the existence of ones world (loka), ones substratum, ones glory and ones basis, a living being feels as though it has been created from the whole and that it itself is omnipotent. Generally the discussion of this reality is heard in discourses, lectures etc. People tend to talk a lot about this divine knowledge and yet it is mere lip service. It is never realized deep down in ones psyche. If one day this divine state is experienced, know for sure that one has attained the greatest boon of self-realization. It is also called self-wisdom, experience of ones soul nature, vision of the soul, self-liberation etc.
There are 2 aspects of self-realization according to the first one when one experiences ones nature as divine consciousness one says I am God, I am Chidanand, I am Shiva, I am Existence Consciousness Bliss and thus ones individual soul merges into the cosmic soul. The second aspect encompasses the vision of all beings, objects etc. of the cosmos as a part of ones very soul and vice-versa. Every object of the cosmos is transient, fleeting and inert. When one experiences joy while contacting these inert objects, the joy does not belong to the objects, but that ones own soul reflects joy. Thus every living being has its own separate existence. They are bound to each other merely as a duty and responsibility. None are our very own and none are aliens. We are all toys of God and live as companions of one another. As soon as this wisdom dawn in the psyche, ones avarice for material gains and attachments towards so called beloved ones disappears. It is delusion of the mind that induces unwanted, unnecessary activities. Intellectual intoxication leads to ill-will, vile thinking and lowly action. These then result in bodily / mental diseases and thus this rare to attain human body lives a life equivalent to hell. Inner downfall (mental) results in anger, lack of contentment etc. Those who deeply understand this do not face pain in this world which is actually a divine garden of God. When the darkness of ignorance is warded off, one sees the divine light of God in every atom of the cosmos. Since there is bliss everywhere nothing can influence the psyche.
This self-realization is nothing but the purified state of the Bliss Sheath. In it there is always an untold, eternal joy. One experiences God (Brahman) within oneself and ones own existence within the womb of God. Under such circumstances ones inner soul ceaselessly experiences contentment, peace and heavenly bliss. One needs nothing else after attaining a human life and a divine boon such as self-knowledge. One is totally contented in a blissful manner. This is called true, eternal satisfaction. When darkness disappears what remains is light only. All sorrow, fear and danger is conjoined to spiritual ignorance. When ignorance is destroyed one attains zest akin to heaven, nectar and Soma juice. People who attain this self-realized state are called Paramhans, Sthithapragna, Avadhoot, Brahma-gnani etc. They are also called Jeevan Muktas (liberated while alive). They also include Avataras (Incarnation of God), Prophets, Yuga Purushas, realized saints etc. They never encounter personal problems nor do they have any desires. They desire only what God desires and looking upon the requirements of current times as their own needs; they execute gigantic tasks for its fulfillment and yet deep down they are totally dispassionate and detached. Success/failure never affects them. They only yearn that their attitude and action are of high, sacred statures. This is the most clear sign of a purified Bliss Sheath. They overflow with the immortal nectar which is showered on all those who contact them (realized saints) either personally or mentally. They laugh and help others laugh. They bloom and help others bloom. They swim and help others swim to safer shores. Such Super Humans can be compared to a sandalwood tree. All plants, trees growing near a sandalwood tree imbibe sandalwood fragrance. Such personalities are like Paras (touch stone). When iron comes in contact with Paras, it turns into gold. These great souls are like a Kalpa-Vriksha (wish fulfilling tree) because when one sits under this tree, all ones desires are fulfilled. Whoever tastes nectar becomes immortal. The awakened consciousness of the Bliss Sheath is like nectar because a minor grace from it helps others attain supreme bliss. Due to sunlight, the dark night gets transformed into daylight. A personality illumined by the light of soul bliss, engulfs the darkness of its era and like the early morning sun at dawn, spreads light in all directions. They glorify themselves and glorify that era, world, history and a line of followers.
When spiritually one experiences that the soul is ones true nature which is separate from the body, one loses identification with the body and thus the painful cycle of births and deaths is warded off. Those whose body identification is strong are harassed by desires, hopes and their ego. Such people give material joy a lot of importance and thus lead harassed lives. Thus they remain uneasy, angry, devoid of peace, worried etc. They are harassed by infinite ego based desires and experience a sense of lacking and failure. When the psyche realizes that I am the soul and not the body, it knows that its desires are like toys of children. Hence ones entire psyche is focused on purifying ones soul. No doubt the body has to be looked after, yet it should not be the ultimate goal of life. As a result, this transformed mental state positively changes our entire life. The viewpoint of great-realized saints is very much different from those human beasts who are afflicted with mental delusion and spiritual ignorance. Great men act exactly according to their way of thinking. In fact whatever they think has to happen. Their inner being overflows with self-contentment and faith. Thus the Bliss Sheath is activated so as to attain a divine inner state and heavenly bliss in this very life.
The Bliss Sheath is that supreme state of consciousness wherein man despite leading an ordinary life externally is called a realized saint. These saints shower blessings on the entire world. Amongst the activation of the Five Sheaths, concentration/meditation of the Bliss Sheath transforms the personality to such an extent that it is like a man living on earth slowly ascending to the inner state of divinity.
Meditate on the fact that the body is not a gross object and that it is divine light in nature. A shower of electricity flows in the centre of the head i.e. Sahasrar Chakra. These electrical flames are full of divine zest, divine energy and sacred inspiration.
2 (S, T, U) MEDITATION ON SAVITA MANIFESTATION
By itself the Bliss Sheath is a divine body enclosed within the gross body, yet if you wish to influence it, catch it, one has to establish a bond with its central point that is called Sahasrar Chakra. Sahasrar is said to be in the middle area of the head and is also called Brahmarandhra.
Interstellar forces manifest on the North Pole of Earth. The Earth fulfils various requirements with the help of these forces. Man too is like a planet. The middle centre of the head called Brahmarandhra is like the North Pole of Earth and it balances our entire body. The central, point of the head is Sahasrar. It is conjoined to divine existence. A foetus of a pregnant lady is joined to the womb via the umbilical cord. In the same way Sahasrar (centre of Brahmarandhra) is the cord which helps the individual soul (creature) contact the cosmos soul (God).
In Indian Mythology (Puranas) there is a strange but exciting description of Brahmalok, Vishnulok and Rudralok. Brahmalok means infinite ocean of water, lotus with 1000 petals, Brahmaji seated on the lotus and spiritual austerities. Vishnulok is Lord Vishnu resting on a bed comprising of a 1000 headed serpent (Shesha). Shivalok is Kailash mountain, Manasarovar, and Shiva wearing a garland of a snake. The description of the Lokas (abodes) of these 3 gods can be correlated to the Sahasrar Chakra situated in the middle of the human head. Brain fluid is the ocean of Vishnu or Manasarovar. The 1000 headed serpent, 1000 petalled lotus, snake around Shankars neck and the serpentess representing Kundalini (Divine Serpent Power) are the thrones of Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh, preceptor etc. This symbolic description can be correlated to the wet material in the centre of the head, Sahasrar Bindu at its centre and divine give-take conjoined to it. The pigtail is the flag of glory. This pigtail is considered to be as pure as an idol of God as per Hindu tradition and during the head shaving ceremony it is established on the head via various ceremonies.
Sahasrar Chakra is the road via which Savita energy enters the Bliss Sheath. Like other Chakras its nature is like a powerful whirlpool of energy. It is also called 1000 petalled lotus. Thousands of rays of the sun, thousands of waves of the ocean and thousands of eyes/arms of God are well known. From this centre too thousands of divine stream emit special fountains. Keeping all this in mind it is also called 1000 petalled lotus. Sahasrar means 1000 rays. These rays have minute teeth. They are like petals of a lotus. Just as a fire cracker emits infinite sparks, in the same way infinite energy flows from Sahasrar Chakra and thus benefits various centres of the soul in varied ways.
In concentration/meditation of the Bliss Sheath one deeply imagines that Savita energy after entering Sahasrar, merges into all the Sheaths. If the mental resolve is full of faith, hope and radiance, the magnetism of Sahasrar can attract and imbibe gigantic amounts of Savita energy. It is experienced as an aura. Aura generally means light mixed with beauty and a face full of magnetism and inspiration is said to have a radiant aura. But over here we are talking about the aura of the soul and not the body and hence it is seen to be contented, satisfied and peaceful. Contentment means satisfaction. Satisfaction means bliss. Peace means lack of mental agitation and a balanced mental state. These 3 boons depict the cultured, great thinking of consciousness that works in the 3 bodies. The gross body is contented. The subtle body is happy. The causal body is calm and peaceful. This is that very state in which a peaceful smile manifests. A very light hearted zest manifests. Kabir calls this state Sahaj Samadhi.
Sahasrar is said to be the Savita of the inner world. Savita is said to be the early morning golden sun. The sun of the universe shines in the sky. Sahasrar is Savita of the living beings body. It is called the rising golden sun. These activities carried out by Savita within the limits of the universe are also carried out in a similar manner by Sahasrar in the 5 sheaths of the soul, in the 6 chakras and other gross / subtle parts.
Activation of the Bliss Sheath encompasses soul knowledge, spiritual knowledge and divine knowledge. Thus concentration/ meditation is executed so that spiritual seekers benefit from the 3 fold grace via the divine light of Savita.
The ball of rays of Savita energy enters the Sahasrar Chakra, vibration of divine light in the centre of the head, sprays more clear, they are becoming more intense. These waves of light spread out in far flung regions. Everywhere is the soul principle, one experiences ones soul principle, experiences ones soul (self) everywhere. Amazing peace, satisfaction, experiencing contentment, omnipotence, Sthitha Pragna (realized saint), wisdom of the inner state of an Avadhoot. Experiencing oneness with the soul and God.
3 (A) THE 5 NAMES AND 5 LEVELS OF KUNDALINI
Meditation/concentration practices pertaining to Kundalini (Divine Serpent Power) awakening has its first leg as preliminary meditation. It has already been described in the meditation practice of 5 sheaths. Hence over here we commence a description of special meditation programs pertaining to Kundalini activation.
By using 5 words we can describe Kundalini Shakti (Divine Serpent Power) 1) vital electricity 2)life giving electricity 3) fire of Yoga 4) inner energy 5) divine light. The directions of these words elucidate not only its nature and result but also its stepwise evolution. The more this activation/awakening intensifies, the more its levels are raised. Thus, when one goes deeper and deeper into ones soul one comes across innumerable divine glories (Vibhootis).
From the standpoint of Anatomical Studies, Kundalini is taken to be vital electricity and life force. Vital electricity is that electricity which keeps our nerves conscious, makes our brain powerful and induces movements in various bodily organs. It is something like electricity of machines. Although it can be measured using advanced technology, it is only an admixture of living principles. This is because it has a special quality of influencing and getting influenced by thoughts and emotions that cannot be seen in an inert machine.
On the basis of increase/decrease of vital electricity mans zeal, daring, will-power and self-confidence increase/decrease. Skills are nothing but a confluence of all these special qualities which in the form of zest influences the mind and as enthusiasm influences bodily movements. Mutual give and take takes place on the basis of increase/decrease of this electricity. They influence and get influenced by one another. Radiant people not only succeed in leaving behind their imprints in the areas they contact but they also succeed in transforming the entire atmosphere. When this very vital electricity conjoins to inner greatness, man imbibes the thinking and activity of great people. Such a person does not need advice from anyone and is not influenced by any opposition or lack of it. Daring is a very intense force which works as an intense will power (Sankalp Shakti). Even if the available means are very few they execute great tasks that are gigantic in nature.
This vital electricity induces beauty, magnetism and attraction in the body. It adds zest in the psyche. Wherever its measure is apt, there indolence or lethargy cannot dwell. Over there mismanagement or lack of discipline has no place. A progressive life commences due to zest and vigour and one marches ahead in that direction which the psyche wishes. The preliminary Sidhis (divine powers) of Kundalini (Divine Serpent Power) activation are of this stature. Kundalini is first seen as this vital electricity.
This Super Power is also called Life Force. Ordinarily Life Force is that powerhouse on the basis of which man remains steadfast. He becomes powerful and lives a long life. He patiently remains equipoised despite facing hardships, lack of comforts and dangerous situations. This power helps him fight and overcome diseases and remain calm even if these diseases persist for a long time. Without this power man is lifeless and a little bit of pain can agitate him a great deal. Even if a minor illness attacks his body, he will sleep for weeks together and only after a few months can he start normal duties. A little bit of hardship induces so much worry in his psyche, it seems as though all the pain of the world has entered his psyche. An agitated man will not only commit suicide but can also inflict pain on others. He loses his sense of rationality and in the name of self-defence executes undesirable actions. Life Force induces equipoise, daring and discrimination (Viveka) in ones psyche.
It is believed that man lives a long life due to nourishing food and material comforts. This is only partly true. It is a good habit to work in tandem with Mother Nature (Prakriti). Yet this topic does not end here. Then there is no cause of strength of a person persisting under dire circumstances. How has the Eskimo race survived despite intense cold in the North Pole region? This question cannot be answered by saying that it depends on nourishing food because they hardly avail of it. In the Uzbekistan region of Russia, even today, you find human beings who live for 100 to 175 years. Its cause cannot be pinpointed to good food, material comforts etc. In fact it is the miracle of the divine storehouse of Life Force. With the help of Life Force one can remain alive despite lack of nourishing food, material comforts etc. The food eaten by great Yogis of the snow clad. Himalayan Mountains (India) is not very nourishing by medical standards, yet they amazingly lead very long lives. Many demonic minded people behave in a very unruly manner and are very powerful like demons. Over here too is a storehouse of Life Force. Bheeshma (of Indian epic Mahabharat), sleeping on a bed of arrows, accepted the boon of death at will after a great span of time. This was nothing but his power of resolve (will-power) that ordained his extremely weak body to remain alive. This command was executed perfectly. That divine capacity conjoined to consciousness which helps one remain alive via balanced way is called Life Force. Bodily/mental strength is totally dependent on it. If Life Force decreases, a man with a very strong body too leads a helpless life. This Life Force is generally more potent in women than men. As a result she endures pregnancy and delivery pains and despite breast feeding her kids she does not become weak.
Life Force is a special capacity which plays a major role in making ones life powerful and balanced. Of course! It is not a creation of bodily blood, flesh etc. Its roots lie in the deep recesses of the soul. It rises from this region and makes the mind and body very powerful. When Kundalini Shakti (Divine Serpent Power) exhibits radiance in ones day to day life, it is called Life Force. Thus an important aspect of Kundalini manifests in the material world as Life Force which is like vital electricity.
The third name of Kundalini is Fire of Yoga (Yogagni). On the basis of spiritual penance it can be manifested with intense effort. When any object is heated, it becomes hot and undergraduate students of Science too know about the energy that manifests and spreads out with the help of heat. Exercise leads to bodily strength, studies lead to intellectual strength and professional endeavor leads to wealth-based power. In the same way, Fire of Yoga is the radiance that manifests due to the penance pertaining to soul based endeavor. Yoga is the union of Soul and God, behaviour and sacred ideals and action and discrimination. When 2 energy flows meet at a point, a third extraordinary stream emerges. When the ve and +ve streams of electricity are separate, they are inactive, but when they unite, an intense electrical flow manifests. Fire of Yoga is the energy that manifests due to austerities based on union of behaviour and sacred ideals. Fire of Yoga gives one the capacity of showering others with booms or curses. The manifestation of miraculous Sidhis (divine powers) conjoined to extra-ordinary saints is a result of Fire of Yoga. This Fire of Yoga is one of the many forms of Kundalini Shakti (Divine Serpent Power).
Kundalinis fourth name is Inner Energy. Bodily energy is seen as varied forms of endeavour. Mental energy manifests as discrimination of the intellect and enterprise in sacred arenas. Higher and deeper classes ahead of this is called Inner Energy, meaning soul force. Soul Force struggles against soul based obstacles and tries to ward them off. We all have taken up bodies of lowly animals, birds etc. in our past lives and hence we have collected many vile psychic imprints. When these vile psychic imprints manifest from the deep recesses of our consciousness, they suppress our sense of discrimination (Viveka). Thus sacred idealistic thinking is relegated to one corner of the mind and thus inner agitation gets a chance to engulf our psyche. It is only soul force that can fight with these mental distortion and weaknesses. An undesirable flow from all directions forcefully pulls all living beings towards itself. Soul force after warding them off, forces it to listen to the directions of the soul and act accordingly. In order that a space craft (rocket) enters interstellar space, after passing through the earths atmosphere and its magnetic layer, a lot of energy (fuel) is needed in the preliminary stages. It is easy to get attracted to a life of sacred ideals but it takes a lot of mental strength to actually live such a life. It is virtually impossible to walk on the path of soul progress because on the one hand greed, attachment and other distortions ensnare us and on the other hand there is the pressure of near kith and kins and the undesirable atmosphere that spreads in all directions. It is only soul force that can overcome all these obstructions and it not only helps us lead a life of greatness but helps us attain the means required for it.
In order to rise higher, energy is required. This sort of work is carried out by a water pump, cranes etc. This energy is also required to fire a bullet from a gun and jumping high into the air. Negative progress that leads to ones downfall is like water flowing from a higher level to a lower level. As against this if we yearn for positive progress i.e. the path of greatness, we must take recourse to our soul force. Keeping this fact in mind, Kundalinis (Divine Serpent Power) fourth name is Inner Energy.
Kundalinis fifth name is divine light. Beyond the gross, subtle and causal bodies of the bodily, mental and emotional centres are the regions of the soul i.e. divinity. Various Upanishads and scriptures of spiritual practices describe a light in the cave of the heart that is of the measure of our thumb. Many spiritual practices have been designed and recommended so as to visualize this light. This vision of light is also called self-realization, attaining God etc. The psyche i.e. the Intellectual Sheath is said to be the centre of a living being. The soul light of the Intellectual Sheath is a glimpse of Kundalini Shakti (Divine Serpent Power).
Sahasrar is said to be Brahmaloka (divine world). The region where God is realized / experienced is called Brahmarandhra. In this randhra i.e. cave hides God. When God comes out of this cave, a spiritual seeker can see Him. It is called a symbolic vision. Actually divine light is not seen but is instead deeply / subtly experienced. One experiences that the individual soul (living being) has merged into the cosmic soul (God). When ones actions are inspired by God, know for sure that the influence of divine light is augmenting in a living beings soul.
Soul light helps manifest latent glories in the soul arena and thus man gets an opportunity to become divine. One can see him lead a divine life. The manifestation of divine light is a higher realm. It can be seen as a layer of Brahma-Varchas in the soul arena. The Lords grace manifests in this region. This point of contact helps establish a bond with God. On this basis a bond of give and take takes place between the Soul and God. Sahasrar is the abode of God. It encompasses Shiva of Kailash, Vishnu lying on Shesha and Brahma seated on a lotus. By itself one part to God is always present in every life, but its level and measure is dependent on the intensity of divine light. Western spiritual scientists accept the supreme nature of this light which they call Latent Light or Divine Light. Indian Rishis and seers call it Savita. Savita is nothing but the radiant form of God. Savita is the very life of Gayatri. When Kundalini (Divine Serpent Power) is activated, the living being situated in the Mooladhar Chakra rises upwards with great ferocity to unite with divine existence dwelling in Sahasrar. The goal of life is to unite the soul light with divine light and it is also the ultimate leg of Kundalini awakening. When a spiritual seeker reaches this state his inner being takes up a form akin to Savita. Incarnation of God (Avataras), Prophets of God, Paramhansas, Saints liberated in life (Jeevan Mukta) etc. are of this stature. Vision of light (Darshan) is nothing but direct experience of the sensation of divine light. It can also be called attainment of God. Ultimately the divine consciousness of Kundalini attains this very state. Thus we pray Tamaso ma Jyotirgamaya i.e. let us enter light from darkness.
The 5 names of Kundalini 1)Vital Electricity 2) Life Force 3) Fire of Yoga 4) Inner Energy 5) Divine Light describe the stepwise evolution of soul based radiance and thus leads us on this path.
Meditate this body is an external part of this Great Power. Seeds of energy and oceans of energy dwell in the Mooladhar Chakra. Due to attacks of mental resolve in that area or while contracting / relaxing muscles, one experiences vibrations of live electricity in the body. One experiences strange sparks.
3 (B) THE FIVE LEGS OF KUNDALINI MEDITATION / CONCENTRATION
MANIFESTATION OF DIVINE LIGHT VIA CHURNING
The first leg of concentration/meditation during Kundalini (Divine Serpent Power) awakening is churning. We all know that churning results in creation and augmentation of energy. When we rub our hands, heat manifests in our palms. When we churn curds, they became warm and this heat helps butter came up to the surface. Electricity too is generated via friction. Lightning seen in skies too is the result of cloud friction. When our inner being is churned, divine light manifests. In the Yogic technique of Pranayam we are executing the act of churning via inhalation / exhalation. The entry /exit of blood into various organs too is called churning, as a result of which the bodily temperature maintains an apt balance and all functions are carried out smoothly.
At birth itself man avails of a lot of Kundalini Vital Force. Yet it is in a latent state. It is called a sleeping serpentess because despite being ferocious like a serpentess, it is sleeping and that too with its mouth facing downwards. Sleeping with mouth facing downwards means inclined towards a downfall. Our energy drains away from our sense organs via sexual passion, desires etc. This energy is used for tasks that look very attractive in the beginning but ultimately it gives us nothing but pain and sorrow. An activated / awakened Kundalini rises upwards which means our downfall is obstructed and that we are marching ahead on the path of true greatness.
In order to awaken someone who is asleep, we have to shake him. This is akin to churning. This takes place during sexual union too. It results in incitement, calmness and pregnancy.
A detailed description of the churning of the ocean is given in Indian Mythology called the Puranas. The demi-gods and demons together churned the ocean and as a result 14 great jewels appeared. Our soul is too like an ocean. Within it demi-gods can be called God and demons can be called Mother Nature (Prakriti). When both work together the result is material and spiritual glory. These are like the 14 super jewels attained while churning the ocean. Life is like an ocean, which if left alone gives you nothing but salty water. As against this if you churn it, if its latent qualities are manifested, a man who previously lived an ordinary life now reaches pinnacles of greatness (material and spiritual). Right from historical great men to unknown divine men, they have glorified their own lives and inspired thousands of others to walk on the path of greatness. Its cause is certainly not bodily/mental prowess or material comforts but it is the miracle of their inner radiance. To attain this one has to purify the soul and transform it. These 2 endeavours can be compared to a churning rod that moves back and forth while making butter. This is akin to churning ones very life. Just as churning helps manifest butter hidden in buttermilk, so too churning of the mind leads to manifestation of divine qualities. This is exactly what is described in the churning of the ocean in Indian Mythology i.e. the Puranas.
The element fire pervades the gross, subtle and causal bodies of a human being. It is also called energy. Miracles are seen via will power, knowledge power and action power. On its basis mans aura can be measured. If this fire and energy is left untouched, it lies latent. One will not even know that they exist, yet if they are manifested, their mere spark can take the form of a blazing inferno and thus we can experience its great light and influence. Many forward thinking human beings have manifested this fire of life via intense perseverance. Spiritual practices (Sadhana) too are a high statured effort. It is extremely useful in intensifying ones soul potential. In the first leg of Kundalini (Divine Serpent Power) awakening, churning is executed via meditation / concentration which helps manifest hidden fires/energies of the gross, subtle and causal bodies. As a result fire and energy of the soul influences various aspects of human behaviour. The more ones spiritual endeavour ripens, the more it becomes radiant. This is nothing but churning of fire and energy.
In ancient times sacred fire for Yajnas (fire sacrifices) was kindled via a churning wooden rod (Arani). Two pieces of wood were rubbed against one another so as to kindle fire. In the same way inner churning of ones being is equivalent to Arni Manthan. It is also called churning of ones Prana (Vital Force). When we exercise our bodily heat augments and becomes more steadfast. Churning of ones inner energy/Vital Force makes a spiritual seeker very powerful.
Everywhere one can see the good results of churning. Churning of life commences with Mooladhar Chakra churning. As a result latent divine potentials are awakened. It is said that extinguished flame lamps are re-kindled when the Deepak Raga (Indian musical tune) in sung. This belief could be doubted but it is a fact that via concentration/meditation the flame of life is re-kindled as a result of all round inner churning. Like Arni Manthan the flame of life is kindled. Due to this manifestation, heat in cold and light in darkness is seen. This is the first leg of Kundalini awakening i.e. churning which results in manifestation of divine light.
Meditate on the fact that Savita energy after entering the Mooladhar region induces intense vibrations. This vibratory energy churns the Mooladhar region. It thus heats up that area. The flames / tongues akin to the Fire of Yajna blazes more ferociously and sways in all directions.
3 (C) THE UPWARD RISE OF AN AWAKENED LIGHT OF LIFE
It is not necessary that ones skills and radiance be used for great tasks only. Many a time it is misused and gets scattered to naught. Many human beings possess bodily might, intellectual prowess, skills, material means etc. Yet instead of using them aptly they execute such tasks which on the one hand seems to be bestowers of joy and yet it ultimately leads to ones downfall. Such human beings themselves undergo pain and inflict sorrow on others. We are all aware of people who are addicted to alcohol/drugs etc., people who behave in an unruly fashion and who work with wicked intentions. No doubt these demonic people have power but because it is misused they undergo a downfall in life. Not only does this power go in vain, but it creates a bad destiny. In fact it would be more appropriate that such people lack power and material means. No doubt they would then face hardships due to lack of means yet they would not have to face long term dire consequences of vile activities.
It is a great blessing to attain power only if it is utilized for great/sacred tasks that help you rise upwards both materially and spiritually. Like material power good results of soul power can only manifest when its flow is directed towards great endevaours. The second leg of concentration/meditation of Kundalini awakening, is called upward movement. Demons like Ravan, Kansa, Hiranyakashyap, Bhasmasur, Vritrasur etc. had attained the second type of power via tough austerities, yet because they misused this power, it became a prime cause of their downfall. Via spiritual austerities based on Yoga and penance no doubt ones soul power augments, yet its results can be very painful. In Kundalini (Divine Serpent Power) awakening this fact is kept in mind and the power attained is encouraged to flow upwards i.e. on the path of greatness. By itself a flame of light, tongues of fire etc. tend to rise upwards, yet a vile intellect forces it to move downwards. Thus one has to be extremely cautious and alert. Of course! During a downfall apt use can be made of soul awakening and soul light. Such tasks are executed by Tantriks, Kapaliks and Aghoris. As a result demonic nature imbibed a bad name, else power was accumulated even by people of this category. Even a dacoit can imbibe the spiritual quality of daring and thus succeed in his heartless / vile activities.
Upward movement is the second leg of meditation/concentration. One meditates on the fact that Kundalini light that has awakened in the Mooladhar is rising upwards. It moves upwards along the Merudand (subtle spine) and after journeying along the Sushumna path, it unites with Sahasrar Chakra. It is called the great union. Mooladhar energy is called the Great Serpentess and Sahasrar Aura is called the Great Serpent. Like the sexual union of a husband and wife, the union of the great serpent and great serpentess wards off their lack of being complete. It is like the union of +ve and ve poles of electricity that generates an active flow of electricity.
The onus lies on a spiritual seeker to see to it that he gives an upward direction to the energy flow of an awakened/activated Kundalini. Via the Sushumna path (hollow area of Merudand or subtle spine) it rises upwards and like lightening it unites with Sahasrar that lies in the Brahmarandhra. This lightening like movement is experienced by a spiritual seeker externally as itchiness, flutteriness, hair-standing on end etc. near the spinal cord. Since Kundalini is an energy of the subtle body and not the gross body, its activities are experienced as subtle emission. Very rarely is some vibration experienced near the spinal cord of the gross body.
In the symbolic representations given by spiritual scriptures, this upward movement is called the great journey of the soul entering Brahmalok via the Devayan path. It is believed that this happens only after one dies. Further we must realize that apart from the belief that salvation takes place after death is a fact, it is also true that Merudand path too is called Devyan path and the awakened soul consciousness that rises upwards does ultimately reach divine worlds. Brahmarandhra is nothing but Brahmalok. God dwells in Sahasrar. Over here a living being experiences divine bliss and becomes a Jeevan Mukta (liberated while yet alive). Salvation / liberation (Mukti) is equivalent to attainment of God. Nearness to God i.e. Salvation is said to be of 4 types 1) Salokya 2) Sameepya 3) Sarupya 4) Sayujya. These are stepwise movements of union. Salokya means reaching Brahmaloka. Sameepya means becoming like God i.e. Brahmin. Sayujya means the individual soul (living being) merging into the cosmic soul (God). Incarnation of God, Avadhootas and great saints are of this stature. Despite the fact that liberation after death is a reality, one can yet attain Jeevanmukti (salvation while alive) and taste its immortal nectar. This is equivalent to the last stage of concentration/meditation wherein Kundalini (Divine Serpent Power) on awakening rises upwards.
Consciousness dwelling in the Mooladhar Chakra is so intensely conscious of the body that it is ensnared by the painful bondage to the material world. Bondage to the world encompasses desires, lust, greed, delusion, arrogance, envy, vanity etc. These can be cut as under only when a person looks at himself, his needs and his goal beyond the body. That is an individual should overcome body consciousness which is nothing but deluded attachment to the body. As long as we look upon ourselves as the body (I and mine) and look upon likes /dislikes as profit/loss, till then it is impossible to cut the robe of delusion that binds us to the material world. When we travel in a plane at a great height, everything below appears tiny and dwarfish. In the same way when our inner consciousness rises up spiritually, all these things adored by the body (e.g. desires for sense pleasures, sense of I and mine) seem very petty. As a result the sky of the soul appears to be very clear and endearing. The sacred results of concentration/meditation carried out in the second leg of Kundalini awakening are of this type. This bliss is not merely a superficial joy but that such an intense stream of soul force is conjoined to it which helps us attain spiritual and material glories and grandeur.
The synonyms of upward movement are upliftment, elevation and prosperity. From this we gain a glimpse of the state of people of such stature. Even a lowly man can attain material comforts and means but in order to attain spiritual greatness, the only means are high statured qualities, actions and character. When Kundalini is elevated one is inspired to work for inner greatness and that substratum of prosperity manifests which helps man reach great heights of life.
In the first leg of Kundalini awakening the act of churning is executed. It is akin to zest for intense effort. One has to persevere intensely so as to destroy vile psychic imprints and augment sacred qualities. This is the only way in which a sleeping state is awakened. The second leg of soul progress is to induce upward movement /elevation of energy that manifests due to awakening. It is only when one lacks proper direction that waywardness manifests. In fact misuse totally destroys energy. Hence as soon as sacred energy manifests, it should be utilized immediately for higher tasks. This is the basis of material progress and this path leads to soul advancement too. If downfall is obstructed the result will be elevation. It is only when a hole in a port is sealed properly, can one fill the pot with water to its brim. The soul which evolves as a result of Kundalini (Divine Serpent Power) awakening attains glory by following this path.
Meditate that via the medium of subtle streams, Savita energy is forcing an awakened Kundalini to flow upwards along the path of the Merudand (subtle spine). Infinite waves of Savita energy heads in that direction. Along with it Life Force too rises upwards in a stepwise manner.
3 (D) AWAKENING AND PIERCING THE CHAIN OF CHAKRAS
The body has infinite energy centres. They lie dead-like in a latent state but when they awaken, they execute actions with the ferocity of a lion. Boons of divine glories are said to be blessings of some external authorities and are attained via entreaties. But this is not true. In fact they are manifestations of radiance of ones inner world. Soul awakening and Gods grace are inseparable.
The energy centres activated via spiritual practices and which show miraculous activities in the arena of life are said to be innumerable. Yet 6 of them are predominant. They are called Shat Chakras or 6 Chakras (subtle plexuses). At the base of the Merudand lies the Mooladhar Chakra and at the top lies the Sahasrar Chakra. Between these 2 lie Savidhashthan, Manipur, Anahat and Vishudha Chakras. Thus 6 Chakras lie on the Merudand (subtle spine). Certain scriptures differ on this subject. If the Ajna Chakra is included in the 6 Chakras, Sahasrar would then become a central authority. If Sahasrar is included in the 6 chakras the Ajna Chakra will be categorized separately and will be named a window, searchlight etc. If both the Ajna and Sahasrar Chakras are included then the total number of Chakras will be 7 and not 6. Thus it is the fight between number 6 and 7. In reality all these Chakras are influential centres of divine energy. None of these are less important and ones soul consciousness marching on the path of progress cannot afford to ignore any one of them. We have to respect both these numberings. Yet we benefit from all 7 of them.
In Indian Mythology (Puranas) the 6 Chakras are depicted as the 6 faced Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva and Parvati (Shakti). Fire kept him in its womb and the 6 Kritikas (planet with 6 stars called Pleaides) nourished him. As soon as coolness set in, he defeated many ferocious demons and thus helped the demi-gods re-assert their reign in heaven. The description given in Indian Mythology clearly indicates the nature, mystery and fruits of the 6 chakras situated on the Merudand.
The number 7 too is very important. If the nature and importance of the 7 islands, 7 oceans, 7 worlds, 7 Rishis, 7 horses of Suns chariot etc. are understood deeply, one can gauge the potential of the 6 chakras and the fruits of their activation. The body is said to be a ball of flesh i.e. micro, yet if one understands its divine capabilities, one can say it is the entire cosmos i.e. macro.
These Chakras lie on the Merudand (subtle spine). Ajna Chakra is said to lie between the eyebrows, yet it too lies on the Merudand path, albeit slightly deeply. Sahasrar Chakra lies in the middle of the head region. If Sahasrar is the Sun, Ajna Chakra is a satellite i.e. moon. Both are inseparably bound to one another and lie very close to each other. Thus both of them lie in the upper region of the Merudand and the remaining Chakras too are related to the Merudand. Yet when the topic of activation of Chakras is discussed, only 6 chakras are included. The seventh is called the centre of Sahasrar awakening and a profound symbol of God. Awakening lays great emphasis only on the 6 Chakras.
When Kundalini Shakti (Divine Serpent Power) awakens in the Mooladhar Chakra, it rises upwards. Wind moves upwards when it comes in contact with heat. It is seen that when cloud formation takes place and cyclones move upwards, heat helps related objects to rise up too along with the cyclone. It is not as though that energy awakening easily results in an upward movement. It generally faces obstacles. One has to patiently overcome them. They are like milestones on a long journey or are like rest houses. Chakra awakening is also called Chakra penetration. Just as separate flowers, pearls etc. are joined together in one thread after piercing each of them with a needle, Chakra piercing is something akin to this. Results of Chakra piercing are akin to threading pearls in one string.
It is only when one digs very deep in the earth that one comes across water, ores, oil etc. The human body too is like earth. Quite a bit of its wealth is represented by the 6 Chakras. When family members are sleeping, robbers enter their house, loot them and thus a great calamity ensnares them. In the same way when the 6 chakras are latent, our foes like anger, jealousy, greed etc attack us. The inner foes are desires, anger, greed, delusion, arrogance and envy. External foes can at the most rob you of some material wealth but inner foes attack your psyche and thus inflict darkness on it. Thus the more our psyche awakens to that extent these foes disappear. As soon as the early morning sun rises, night wandering beings run away in holes etc. Generally violent animals, robbers, dacoits etc. carry out vile activities only at night and during day time all these activities come to a virtual standstill. This holds true for inner demons too. Soul progress is obstructed when our beastly character is not overcome. In the third leg of Kundalini awakening, along with purification, penetration and awakening the goal of overcoming obstacles too is fulfilled.
In order to convince Sugreeva that He could kill his brother Vali, Lord Ram penetrated 7 gigantic trees with a single arrow. Chakra penetration which is akin to this is also called soul enterprise. It is like waking up the demon Kumbhakarna (who slept for 6 months at a stretch). Lord Vishnu lies down on a bed of a 1000 headed serpent. If He can be awakened, divine sports of incarnation of God can be witnessed. Our soul which lies in a latent sleep is an irony. Only if it is awakened via Kundalini (Divine Serpent Power) activation, we can see amazing divine activities.
Awakening of Chakras is akin to a partial endeavour of soul awakening. A long journey cannot be undertaken at one shot because in between rest is a must. A train reaches its destination only after pausing at various stations. Chakras too are such stations of rest where one overcomes ones tiredness and thus we gather some energy for the ongoing journey. School children are given prizes, gifts etc. so as to encourage them to work harder. Same is the case with Chakra awakening wherein spiritual seekers attain divine powers. To the extent a Chakra is activated, to that extent one attains divine glories. These are called miraculous Ridhi-Sidhis.
Synonyms of Chakra penetration are penetration of a goal, penetration of a word, penetration of Chakravyuha. Many benefits accrue from these penetration activities. Penetration of a goal means to achieve that goal. In a war it is most necessary to aim at a target aptly so as to overcome ones enemy. When a scheme is designed, the goal is determined and intense effort is made to achieve it. The goal of life is to attain omnipotence or fulfillment. Thus there can be many other targets, which are called goals. Penetration of a goal gives untold joy and benefits.
We have all heard of an arrow akin to a word. Inspiring words can transform ones inner being. Naadyog is Yoga of Sound. It is also called Divine Sound. Its penetration is a kind of attainment of God. Penetration of the 6 chakras is comparable to penetration of sound.
Chakravyuha is designing of war. In it ones enemy is surrounded from all sides. In order to catch a mad elephant, it is surrounded from all sides and thus it gets trapped. Hunters are known to use this technique. They create an uproar so as to encircle lions, tigers etc. Once this is done the ferocious animals become targets of hunters bullet. Chakravyuha is a skill of war. In the Mahabharat War, Abhimanyu was ensnared in such a Chakravyuha and thus was killed. A living being too is ensnared in such a Chakravyuha. This trap is called bondage to the material world. It is also akin to slavery. Overcoming this bondage is called liberation or salvation (Moksha). A living being ensnared by vile thinking and actions, dies like a bird trapped in a hunters net. A hunter traps a deer in his snare. A fish gets trapped due to its desire to eat a piece of flour. Similarly a living being is ensnared by its own demonic psyche. When a person overcomes this trap (Chakravyuha) he is called fortunate. It is thus not an overstatement to say that Kundalini (Divine Serpent Power) awakening is similar to piercing a Chakravyuha in a battle.
In the third leg of meditation/concentration of Kundalini awakening, the 6 Chakras are pierced. Regarding this a clarification is made that due to churning activities in the Mooladhar Chakra, vital energy is awakened which then rises upwards. It journeys along the Merudand path and reaches Sahasrar in the head region. In between it has to overcome many obstacles. It has to rest at many stations and has to take part in competitions that give away prizes. Scattered pearls have to be first gathered and then threaded on one single thread. All these are tasks pertaining to Chakra penetration or awakening. The awakened vital energy called Kundalini situated in the Mooladhar marches ahead along the Sushumna with its intense force and thus penetrates the Chakras that it encounters on the way. Since ones resolve and faith is very deep while meditating, ones deep imagination, which looks superficial on the one hand is actually full of intense power. Thus along with penetration of Chakras it fulfils all required goals.
Meditate Sushumna in Merudand (subtle spine) is like a powerful tube light. Special energy centres lie in it. At the base is Mooladhar, above the genitals is Svadhishthan, Manipur near the navel, Anahat near the heart, Vishudhi near the throat, Ajna Chakra in the middle of the eyebrows and above it near the head is Sahasrar Chakra. Meditate on illuming glands. The light particles of Yoga of Fire in Mooladhar are emitted like bullets and dash against those Chakras. Movements in the energy centres of Chakras along with awakening is experienced. From it streams of energy erupt.
3 (E) THE WIDESPREAD NATURE OF ONENESS OF SOUL IS THE BASIS OF SOUL PROGRESS
The fourth leg of meditation/concentration of Kundalini awakening is to manifest its all pervasiveness i.e. make it limitless. A living being ensnared by the shackles of narrow selfishness never progresses either materially or spiritually. Superficially it seems as though selfish, egoistic people are prosperous. It may appear as though he is amassing wealth via foul means. Since he does not use any of it for sacred purposes, he seems to be very wealthy. In the beginning this may appear to be true but ultimately what was thought be an attainment, is not so in reality because of selfishness attached to it. In fact because of delusion such people are hurting themselves and their own interests.
Narrow selfishness dances to the tune of lusty merriment, passionate desires and arrogance of the ego. Vile thinking and actions pushes it into the crater of pain and sorrow. Selfish gains generally lead to bad habits, addictions to alcohol/drugs etc. or else the next generation burns to ashes, all the illegal money they inherit. Such a person never even thinks of walking on the path of spiritual greatness. He thinks deludedly that by performing some small religious rites he can attain those benefits that are bestowed by God on his true devotees.
The true meaning of spiritual progress is to merge the individual soul (ego, micro) into the cosmic soul (God, macro). The great Vedic Mantra i.e. World united as one family can only be realized when we believe that All are ours and we belong to all. Thus all beings and objects of the entire cosmos become a part and parcel of ones cosmic soul.
A narrow minded individual is a human being and when his soul merges with the cosmic soul, he becomes God Himself. All great men of the world have had to perforce develop a very generous attitude. The life of saints and Brahmins are a proof of this. Devotees of God while standing on the foundation stone of simple living, high thinking have had to prove that they had immersed their psyche into God. If a person is devoured by narrow minded selfishness know for sure that his faith, spirituality and so called religious attitude are nothing short of mockery. Soul progress very much depends on experiencing oneness with all living /non-living beings of the world. This is called a life of true Yajna. Spirituality is synonymous with Yajna. If we make our lives a Yajna, God will manifests in our human body.
The fourth leg of Kundalini based meditation/concentration is attained only when ones soul becomes all-pervasive. One imagines deeply that the spark of Mooladhar energy is not ensnared in a limited area but that it is taking the form of a gigantic inferno which is influencing a widespread area. A small flame instead of remaining limited is determinedly taking the form of a huge blazing fire so as to make its area of influence widespread. Kundalini, after evolving in the Mooladhar area, pervades in the entire existence of the soul and thus the entire body comes under its jurisdiction. Kundalini (Divine Serpent Power) is no longer limited to the Mooladhar area, instead it pervades ones entire life. How can ones soul remain limited? It too becomes cosmic (i.e. micro becomes macro). That thinking and action which were utilized for ones body and close relatives, now experiences oneness of soul with every atom of the infinite cosmos. Thus egoistic selfishness has been replaced by true spirituality that enfolds all beings/non-beings of the cosmos.
This is neither a futile dream nor merry-making imagination. Instead it is a fact that enters our day to day life. While concentrating, one should deeply imagine that a small spark is taking the form of a gigantic inferno and that a flame has been converted into a blazing fire. No longer will the needs of the body and relatives engulf us like a ghost. Instead selfishness will be replaced by divine endeavour.
No longer will one get satiated by filling ones stomach with food and procreating children. This will instead be replaced by greatness of thinking and imbibing of sacred ideals. Just as we were previously immersed in fulfilling our bodily and family requirements, so too we will look after the needs of our earth, country, diverse religious, society and varied cultures. Ere this thinking starts influencing our intellect more clearly and gets imbibed in our daily lives, know for sure that our concentration/meditation practice has replaced our selfishness with a sense of well-being for the entire world.
Meditate on the fact that a small flame in the Mooladhar Chakra has taken the form of a mighty fire, streams of light from all Chakras are spreading in all directions. The Merudand is illumined like a tube-light. In all bodily centres we are experiencing vibrations of divine sensations. We experience the manifestation of unlimited energy in our inner being. A sense of oneness with the world, love, compassion etc. after spreading in all directions is encompassing the entire cosmos in its womb.
3 (F) THE FINAL LEG TRANSFORMATION
Are we succeeding in our spiritual endeavour or are we failing miserably? Only on one basis this question can be answered and that is are we giving up our animalistic thinking and behaviour and replacing it with divine glories. If our attitude is beastly, if we are all the time immersed in greed, envy etc, if we are just eating, drinking and procreating, if our desires have engulfed our psyche, know for sure that all our so called spiritual practices are mere futile imaginations and mental jugglery. We have failed to achieve the true goal of spirituality. Is the Lords grace pouring on us? The answer is yes only if our thinking and actions are marching ahead along the path of greatness. It is crystal clear that so far no human being ensnared by beastly behaviour has succeeded in attaining the Lords grace and soul fulfillment. Such a person may continue performing superficial rites and rituals, yet without mental purification he will only head towards a downfall. Gold is tested by exposing it to fire. In the same way while performing spiritual practices, ones soul progress is measured by gauging as to how much has that person imbibed sacredness/high ideals in his thinking and activities. How much has ones beastly nature been transformed into divinity?
In the Bhagwad Geeta the activities of spiritual seekers has been depicted differently in comparison to human animals ensnared by Maya (power of illusion). Symbolically it has been said that when a materialistic person sleeps, a Yogi (spiritual seeker) remains awake. When a Yogi sleeps, a materialistic person is awake. This riddle means that the viewpoint, goal, nature and endeavour of seekers walking on the path of divinity is very much different from those who are deludedly attached to the material world. Those objects and sense pleasures which are very dear to materialistic, deluded people are totally ignored by men pursuing the divine path. Great men have no attachment to fleeting and transient material joys. Instead they walk on the path trodden by other great men which is called foolish by deluded men attached to the material world. It is thus clear that revolutionary changes have taken place in the life of a spiritual seeker. It is but natural that a layman will look upon such a person as extraordinary in comparison to himself (layman).
Kundalini (Divine Serpent Power) is nothing but soul force. When it intensifies, inner distortion disappear which previously obstructed us from following the path of sacred ideals. Greed for material pleasures and pressure of so called friends do not allow us to attain divine glory. Despite a general desire and a conducive environment, man fails to achieve anything. His life revolves around feeding the stomach, procreation, sinful actions and thus like a donkey carries others burden in a painful manner. This results in leading a mediocre life. When a person starts marching against the general materialistic trend in society, (like a fish swimming against the current of the ocean) know for sure that his soul and Kundalini have awakened. An augmented soul force shows many miraculous deeds. One is inspired by this force to imbibe the Mantra I shall march ahead alone and thus walks on the path of soul greatness. Ones decision is dependent solely on Gods directions and one never acts according to the advice of materialistic men. If the need arises they take help of sayings, advice etc. of other saintly people only. The golden pages of history are a proof of this. One can attain immeasurable amount of elements that give daring inspiration.
Soul weakness means wild imagination of becoming great, while in actuality one is walking on the path of vileness. The inner radiance of Kundalini awakening kicks away this irony and replaces it with a daring, high thinking resolve. The more one augments this resolve, to that extent no external force will have the power to push us into a hell-like life. The result of this awakening is Kayakalpa or bodily transformation. May be our old bodies have not been transformed into a useful one, yet ones old, weak mind can be transformed in a youthful / zestful mind. A lowly living being ensnared by tantalizing desires, greed and delusion, on realizing the nature of self-glory starts transforming his inner being. This is called Kayakalpa. This transformation can not be executed without the help of a strong soul force. If in a gross manner one wishes to understand the subtle nature of Kundalini awakening, one should look into a persons life and find out whether he is imbibing sacred ideals in his day to day life. The final leg of Kundalini (Divine Serpent Power) awakening enfolds the high leveled transformation of ones viewpoint, goal, inclination and action. This faith is intensified during meditation/concentration. In the inner being a golden emotional picture of a bright future that encompasses an all-round transformation is painted so that a change is seen in the external world too.
Mooladhar energy gets transformed on uniting with Sahasrar which shows that the seed of sexual passion is being transformed into the seed of wisdom. Lowly creatures run lustily after desires, sexual passion etc. which leads to their downfall similar to a fly getting stuck in sugar syrup. Another comparison can be made with a fish which gets caught when it bites the hook of a fishermans rod that has a ball of flour attached to it. When our soul awakens, the eye of discrimination opens up. Thus our mind is no longer inclined to run after sexual passion because now it yearns for divine wisdom. The joy experienced by materialistic people who pursue sense pleasures is a minute speck of the bliss enjoyed by people who dive deep into the ocean of divine wisdom. Such a mind makes a powerful resolve (Sankalp) while living a life of Viveka i.e. discrimination without faltering even a wee bit. To the extent Kundalini awakens, to that extent all-round transformation becomes more intense. At such times sacred wisdom directs us on our path of divinity. Everyone can see this great change within themselves. Everyone experiences this change. Not only this but one sees ones own body, the world, objects and other living beings in a transformed state. When our materialistic eye is replaced by the inner eye of wisdom, the world is experienced in a transformed manner. Every moment one experiences God in every atom of the cosmos.
Spiritual Kayakalpa means lowliness being transformed into greatness, desires being converted into sacred sentiments and man being transformed into Almighty God Himself. It is also said to be a transformation of Tamas (spiritual ignorance) into Sattva (purity), hell into heaven and bondage into liberation. When the individual soul becomes God i.e. when deficiency is converted into omnipotence, one attains that goal of human life which is very difficult to attain. The last leg of concentration/meditation of Kundalini (Divine Serpent Power) i.e. transformation, induces a deep yearning in a spiritual seeker so as to attain the above state. Intense yearning itself becomes the path and gives one the necessary means to attain the goal.
Meditate on the fact that vibrations of the energy centre of Mooladhar Chakra are merging into the Shiva Centre in Sahasrar. Thus Shiva and Shakti (energy) have become one. One realizes that a divine authority has taken over our body. The soul, desires, sexual passion and other taints after getting heated in divine light have taken the form of divinity. Selfishness is getting converted into oneness with the entire world, the desire for ones own joy is being converted into a desire for cosmic joy and all desires are being converted into peace and contentment. The soul aura merges into the Infinite and thus becomes Brahmavarchas or divine aura.
4 (A, B) WINDING UP WITH SHANTI PAATH
The final leg of both types of meditation/concentration is Shanti Paath in the end. It is most required that all literary articles include an Epilogue. The same importance is given to Shanti Paath in the end after meditation /concentration has been executed. There are many reasons why utmost importance is given to Shanti Paath. One of them is that while meditating, a spiritual seekers flow of pious sentiments and power of resolve becomes very intense. Consciousness enters the deep recesses of the psyche. After meditation it slowly re-enter the material plane. At such times it is most required that this intense sentimental flow and mental resolve be given an apt direction. When brakes are made use of by a driver of a fast moving car, special attention is given to the steering wheel. The same holds true for the completion of every meditation schedule. Shanti Paath after meditation is over, induces alertness in a spiritual seeker and gives his consciousness an appropriate sense of direction.
The second reason is that during meditation, a spiritual seeker experiences that his soul has conjoined to cosmic consciousness. He experiences that he has attained divine grace. When one comes out of this Bhava Samadhi (trance), when one awakens from Yoganidra (Yogic sleep), it is most required that one continues attaining it. No doubt during Shanti Paath at the end of meditation helps spiritual seeker to slowly awaken from a trance, yet he all the time experiences that he is getting even more divine grace than what he got while he was in Samadhi (trance).
There is one more aspect which needs to be discussed. When a person spends some loving moments with a realized saint or has contacted a divine power, his faith and respect towards the saint manifests. At such times the saint pours his special grace on this person who in turn feels extremely glorified. At the end of a meditation schedule, a special give and take of faith and grace manifests between a spiritual seeker and God. It experiences even more intense and satiating than the entire meditation practice. For many spiritual seekers this process of manifestation of faith and partaking of divine nectar is more endearing and beneficial than the entire meditation schedule.
Initially one chants May I enter into divine light from darkness. May I enter truth from that which is false. May I enter the realm of immortality from the mortal plane. Every spiritual seeker should experience it as a prayer from the deep recesses of his soul. This prayer should be chanted again and again. As a result a spiritual seeker re-enters his natural state and together he prays to God (idol) that he marches towards light, truth and immortality. Thus the distorted ego of the waking state cannot manifest and the powerful resolve of soul progress does not wither away. This is akin to a prayer of intense faith at the time of farewell and parting.
After that one echoingly chants Om 5 times. It is said to be the blessing and grace of ones idol and Supreme Divinity. Om is imperishable divinity. Along with this divine echo, along with these divine sound waves, one must experience ones idol, ones beloved God and ones supreme lover who bestows His blessings on us. Ones divine sentiments should be equivalent to the faith and bliss with which a devotee washes Gods feet with Panchamrit (5 fold nectar) and partakes it reverentially. A spiritual seeker who is re-entering his natural state while deeply inhaling and exhaling, should experience every pore of his body drinking the nectar of divine sound vibrations. He feels he has been glorified, that he has become omnipotent and that he is in a state of eternal satiation.
In this manner meditation should end with Shanti Paath. After this do not speak for some time and remain silent. Later with a calm mind one should take up serious, silent activities like study of scriptures (Svadhyaya). It is most required that one stays away from agitation, unruliness, running around etc. Via such schedules of meditation / concentration a spiritual seeker definitely attains eternal benefits.
CHAPTER 10 - BRAHMAVARCHAS RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF SHANTIKUNJ
(IN HARIDWAR, INDIA)
(Website :www.awgp.org)
Brahmavarchas Research Institute s (Shantikunj) Scientific Study Department requires help of all those people who realize the utility of aims based on the foundation of scientific spirituality. Such people should have the inclination of pursuing this goal.
One will have to study many texts for philosophical research. For this Brahmavarchas library is not enough. Hence other great libraries of the world which abound in such scientific spiritual literature will have to be studied carefully. Especially libraries of well-known Universities of the world will be of great help to us. Of course! There are few colleges that own literature of this philosophical stature. One can also approach Public Libraries. If such well-known libraries, institutes etc. are contacted and requested to give us the required reading material, it would benefit our Institute a great deal.
Many programs and research studies are carried out by government and non-government organizations for material goals. No doubt their fundamental aim is material, yet sometimes certain facts emerge which are useful for science and spirituality. Thus if one keeps in touch with such organizations, Brahmavarchas can be kept well-informed about their research results. It will definitely help researchers of Brahmavarchas Research Institute.
It is a fact that such articles are published in regional publications which give thorough knowledge of spiritual principles. One can send cuttings gathered from regional publications to Brahmavarchas which describe re-birth, fruits of actions, Extra Sensory Potential (ESP) and mysterious movements in Prakriti (Mother Nature). Such contributions form a major department of Brahmavarchas Research Institute.
In order to keep in touch with research institutes and local libraries and thus gather important literature, it is important that help be taken of great thinkers. Thus research scholars of Brahmavarchas are being sent to regions where useful literature is available. Those who are interested in this project can contact
Brahmavarchas Research Institute
Shanti Kunj
Haridwar
Uttranchal
India
Website www.awgp.org
Such respected individuals will be made honorary members of the Research Institute and will be given appropriate directions. This type of Svadhyaya (self study) will prove beneficial for them both materially and spiritually.
END OF PART 4- 5