Way of Life Part 3

SR No.: 006515
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Bhadraguptasuri
Publisher: Vishvakalyan Prakashan Trust Mehsana
Publication Year: 1986
Total Pages: 348
Language: English
Classification: Book_English & Religion
File Size: 18 MB

Page 313

DISCOURSE 70
301 THE FEELINGS OF LOVE AND DEVOTION
If some jivatmas naturally love the Paramatma, some other jivas or beings have to make an effort to love the Paramatma. The temple of the Paramatma and the idol of the Paramatma bring into our mind, the Paramatmatatva (the nature and the greatness of the Paramatma). The recollection of the Paramatma implies the recollection of his infinite virtues and innumerable benefactions. Such a recollection inspires love. Love gives birth to devotion. The love for the Paramatma inspires us to do these three things. DARSHAN (SEEING THE LORD); SPARSHAN (TOUCHING) AND KIRTAN (GLORIFICATION)
When we love the Paramatma, we cannot remain peaceful unless we have his darshan (seeing). Therefore, in the mornings as soon as you get up you must first think of the Paramatma with devotion and love. Then you must go to the temple and have a darshan. You must worship and glorify him. All these actions are impelled by love.
From the Audience: If some do not have love for the Paramatma, is it proper to compel them to have a darshan of the Paramatma and to worship him.
Maharajashri : Do those who thus compel you to love the Paramatma love you? Do they like you? They should also wish that you should become a devotee of the Paramatma. They have this idea, "If this friend of mine keeps visiting the temple every day, he will one day develop love and devotion for the Paramatma”. Do they insist upon your visiting the temple with this idea ? If you keep visiting the temple and worshipping the Paramatma someday the pinpoint of your heart will open out. Some day the ocean of love for the Paramatma will begin surging in your heart and you will experience sublime
bliss.
THE FEELING OF LOVE (PRAMODBHAV)
You must experience the feeling of love (pramod) when you see noble sadhus who specially adore the path of moksha;