Asserted Topics:
The methods and fruits of firm Nishkami observance.
Key Points:
- If one’s Nishkami observance is firm, they will never be distanced from God, neither in this world nor the next.
- God greatly cherishes the service rendered by a Nishkami devotee.
- The firm observance of the Nishkami vow can be maintained by keeping the mind, Pran (breath of life), and body under the rules of Satsang (holy fellowship).
Explanation:
In this Vachanamrut, Maharaj speaks about the essential aspect of Moksha (final liberation). He explains how our internal attitude should be to please God. Maharaj states that He will first share His own experiences, and afterward, everyone should speak about what they believe is beneficial for Moksha and for pleasing God. Maharaj begins by sharing His own perspective.
Maharaj says, “I feel happy only when I renounce something that I am attached to.” He continues, “And if the thought of anything or anyone other than a devotee of God enters my mind, I feel joy when I immediately cast that memory far away. I never feel deprived of the company of a devotee of God. I never have a desire for the enjoyment of Panch Vishay (objects of the five senses). Since the day I was born, I have lived a life without attachment to wealth or women, free from any immoral inclinations. I have always been blameless. My heart constantly meditates on God alone. Such is my steadfast state.”
After this, everyone shared their thoughts, but none of them expressed what Maharaj was expecting.
Then Shreeji Maharaj said, “If one’s Nishkami observance is firm, then in both this world and the world beyond, they will never be distanced from God. My love for such a devotee will never diminish. Even if I am thousands of miles away, I am always close to such a devotee. Conversely, someone who is not firm in Nishkami observance, even if they are physically near me, is actually thousands of miles away. I greatly appreciate the service of a Nishkami devotee. Look at Mulji Brahmachari – he is exceptionally firm in Nishkami observance, and therefore, I am deeply pleased with his service. Others also offer service, but it does not please me as much. In all of my teachings and actions, I emphasize the importance of Nishkami observance. Since the day I manifested on this Earth, I have consistently emphasized the need for Nishkami observance. If my Nishkami state were to weaken, I would become extremely displeased, and I would feel as though I should leave everything and run away. That is why the person who observes the Nishkami vow is the one I love. With such a person, I have a deep and unwavering bond, both in this world and the next.”
At this point, Harji Thakkar asked, “What are the methods by which one can firmly observe the Nishkami vow?” Maharaj replied, “There are three main methods. First, control the mind. Recognize yourself as distinct from the body and mind. Constantly meditate on the fact that you are the Atma (soul), not the body or the mind. The mind is not your true self. Refrain from indulging the mind’s weaknesses and instead, remain detached from it and its tendencies. Keep the mind continuously engaged in listening to the discourses of God, performing Bhakti (devotion), and avoid letting it remain idle. Keep the mind occupied with acts of service, devotion, and righteous activities. If the mind’s platform remains empty, it will quickly turn towards negative thoughts. The mind must be burdened with good deeds and be made to perform them with enthusiasm. If the mind loses interest in positive actions, it will fall into weakness and draw the soul away from the path of salvation. Just as a controlled ghost must be kept busy with tasks, so too must the mind be kept engaged in the Bhakti of God, or else it will lead its master into downfall. Therefore, the mind must be kept continuously engaged in discourses, the nine forms of devotion, and service to God. When the mind is fully immersed in such activities, it becomes controlled.
The second method is to regulate the Pran (breath of life). The primary aspect of Pran is diet. The sustenance of Pran depends on food, and thus, as stated in the Gita, one should regulate their diet. The diet must be moderate—neither too much nor too little. Maharaj explains that excessive greed for food should be avoided. The tongue’s desire for various tastes should be controlled, as the excessive quantity of food satisfies the Pran’s hunger, and this desire fuels the mind’s cravings. When one indulges in favorite foods, the amount consumed tends to increase. Therefore, one must regulate their diet, especially in favorable circumstances, as it is easy to overindulge. By controlling the desire for food, one can regulate the Pran.The third method is body regulation. In Satsang, there are specific rules for maintaining the body, and one must observe these with patience. Just as a wild horse is gradually tamed, so too must the body be disciplined by following the guidelines Maharaj has prescribed. With time, patience, and adherence to these principles, the body can be regulated. This ensures that the Nishkami vow remains firm. One should not think that these three methods are too difficult. Although challenging, they are not impossible. When one is determined to please God, even the most difficult nature can be transformed, and inner enemies like lust and greed can be conquered. Maharaj says that a true seeker is one who, with daily effort, gradually weakens and eventually eliminates their undesirable tendencies.”