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Religion talks: Practice of Bhakti
Sanatana Dharma is the backbone of human existence and it has
been prophesied that Kali Yuga would be characterised by materialistic
pulls. Thus there is every danger of righteousness and spiritual leanings to
become diluted and sparse. The indication is that Satva Guna would be
eclipsed by Rajas and Tamas. As if to reassure us that faith and tradition
can be kept alive so that we can get back to our moorings, the Bhagavata
Purana serves as a manual to those who wish to make their lives meaningful,
said Srimati Prema Pandurang in a lecture.
If Lord Krishna extols Bhakti as the sure route to salvation,
this Purana reveals through its many narratives, discussions and practical
demonstrations how to practise Bhakti in day-to-day life.
To gain a human birth is a difficult proposition and having
obtained it, it is important that we make full use of this opportunity. Time is
a crucial factor in our lives. The child Prahlada is so realised and devoted to
the Lord that he advises his friends that instead of getting involved with the
world and its glitter, one should not waste one’s time and begin to remain
devoted to the Lord. Time and again we have to make an internal audit and assess
our position in this world which is temporary and full of sorrow.
Prahlada also speaks of the nine ways of practising Bhakti —
Sravanam (listening to the narratives of the Lord), Kirtanam (chanting His
name), Smaranam (remembering Him always), Padasevanam (serving Him), Archanam
(worshipping Him), Vandanam (paying obeisance to Him), Dasyam (practising the
role of a servant to Him), Sakhyam (considering Him as friend) and Atmanivedanam
(surrendering oneself to Him).
Various reasons can be attributed to cause problems to human
beings and scriptures have broadly classified the reasons as arising due to 1)
the external world such as those caused by nature, etc., 2) from the peripheral
worlds of spirits, ghosts, etc., and 3) those caused by one’s one nature, both
physical and mental. Remembering the Lord who is the essence of eternity,
consciousness and bliss can heal our sorrows.
( Courtesy:
http://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/religion/ )
Articles: Religious talks
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