Asserted Topics:
The flourishing of Sampradaya.
Key Points:
- The growth of a Sampradaya is ensured by the scripture detailing the life and deeds of the Ishtadev.
Explanation:
This Vachanamrut focuses on the topic of the flourishing of a Sampradaya. A Sampradaya refers to the inheritance of knowledge that has been correctly passed down (sam-yak-prakrushtha-daayabhag), which has been preserved as a tradition. It represents an unbroken lineage of knowledge about Paramatma, Jiva, Maya, and the true nature of Dharma, Gnan, Vairagya, and Bhakti. This tradition carries pure teachings regarding liberation, the means to achieve liberation, and methods of Upasana (worship). A true Sampradaya must have an uninterrupted lineage of worship reaching back to Narayana, and the teachings of the Sampradaya must align with the Upanishads, Brahmasutras, and the Bhagavad Gita. If it is a creation of one’s imagination, it is termed as a Panth (sect), not a Sampradaya. A Panth does not rely on any eternal scripture and is self-propagated.
How does a Sampradaya flourish? First, it is important to understand what is meant by flourishing (pushti). It refers to the continuity and longevity of the tradition over a long period of time. Secondly, the prominence of the Sampradaya compared to other traditions, when judged through a Vedic lens, contributes to its flourishing. When countless seekers accept it, and it gains in numbers, that too is considered part of the Sampradaya’s flourishing.
In this Vachanamrut, Maharaj asks: After the establishment of a Sampradaya, how does it continue to grow in the ways mentioned above? Muktanand Swami responded that the growth of a Sampradaya is ensured by three things: the scripture of the Sampradaya, adherence to the Varnashram Dharma (duties according to caste and stage of life as prescribed by the eternal scriptures), and unwavering faith in one’s Ishtadev. Maharaj then posed the same question to Brahmanand Swami and Nityanand Swami, who gave similar responses to that of Muktanand Swami. Then Maharaj said, “I will now give My answer to the question.”
It is the scripture that describes Ishtadev’s life, from birth until He leaves His mortal body, that ensures the flourishing of a Sampradaya. This scripture can be in Sanskrit or in the language of the people, but it must explain the Ishtadev’s purpose for incarnating on Earth. The scripture must depict His virtues, His practice of Dharma, and His divine greatness. Thus, the flourishing of a Sampradaya is achieved through this type of scripture. However, eternal scriptures like the Upanishads, Brahmasutras, or the Gita do not ensure the flourishing of any particular Sampradaya.
Muktanand Swami mentioned that a Sampradaya flourishes through its scripture, adherence to Varnashram Dharma, and unwavering devotion to the Ishtadev. Brahmanand Swami and Nityanand Swami also echoed this, but Maharaj found this answer insufficient and gave further insight. It is important to understand what Maharaj added and why He considered the previous answer incomplete.
The three elements mentioned by Muktanand Swami contribute to the stability of a Sampradaya, but the concept of flourishing is something beyond mere stability. Most followers of any Sampradaya possess scriptures, adhere to Varnashram Dharma, and maintain devotion to their Ishtadev. Then why would they feel the temptation to join another Sampradaya? They wouldn’t, unless something unique compels them to do so. The uniqueness lies in the life stories of the Ishtadev and the personality that emerges from these stories. It is the powerful, superhuman personality that attracts other followers. Scriptures alone are often insufficient to generate such attraction. This is why most disciples of other sects celebrate their Gurus’ victories, miracles, and other extraordinary deeds, as seen in works like Shankar Vijay, Chorasi Baithak, and Shatdooshani.
Without a unique personality, a Sampradaya cannot truly flourish. Whether it is the superhuman personality of the Ishtadev or the bold, heroic personality of the Guru, the public is attracted to courage and miracles. Historically, the Sampradaya spreads significantly when a powerful king becomes a follower. It is the king’s heroic personality that causes rapid expansion. Similarly, the more brilliant the personality of the Ishtadev, the more people naturally recognize His greatness and become devotees. The personality of the Ishtadev also purifies and legitimizes the scripture. Only a living personality can bring to light the mysteries written in scriptures. However, a strong personality is not built by scriptures alone. At best, scriptures aid in the formation of such personalities, but true personalities are formed by other personalities.Therefore, Maharaj explains that the scripture that causes the flourishing of a Sampradaya must fully express the personality of the Ishtadev. When this personality is accurately revealed, it greatly contributes to the Sampradaya’s flourishing. This is why Maharaj commanded Muktanand Swami to continue writing such scriptures for as long as his body allowed.