________________
Sustaining the fundamental equality of all human beings: Maharishi demonstrates through his teaching that all people—people of different caste, color, race and gender-must be treated equally and with dignity. He teaches the ancient path of meditation (traditionally restricted only to the men of higher classes) to men and women of all castes, religions, and social status, without discrimination. He proclaims: “All are worthy to walk on the path of enlightenment.” For this claim he often faced severe criticism from many in the society—a society, founded on an inherent caste system and a patriarchal social hierarchy.
Sustaining social peace and harmony through Inner Peace: His basic teaching is that in order to sustain outer social and personal harmony, one must follow the inner path of meditation for self-realization, as taught by all major religious traditions. This path requires devotion, not fanaticism, and both belief in and experience of the One God, not mere faith and superstition.
Maharishi Santsevi Ji is a living example of what he teaches. He represents a very significant link in the tradition
18
