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DISCOURSE 81
119
ATTACHMENT IS DANGEROUS
Maharajashri : If at any time, you can ask them these questions, you ask them, "You go to the temple; but can you concentrate upon the Paramatma ? As long as you are in the temple do you not entertain any thoughts relating to sensual pleasures ?” Ask them these questions. If they are men of excessive passion they will be thinking of sensual pleasures even in the temple. Only he who is not excessively passionate can firmly concentrate upon the Paramatma.
Sexual passion is present in everyone. In some people, it may be weaker and in some people, it may be stronger but it is present in every person. The man who can keep his sensual passion under control and who does not desire to gratify his sensual desire can practise celibacy. Sometimes, the sexual passion grows strong. At such a time, only he who possesses a strong will-power; who is spiritually awakened and who knows the method of pacifying and sublimating his sexual passion can refrain from seeking a gratification of his sexual desire. The best methods by which the sexual passion can be sublimated are; spiritual austerities, scriptural studies and the worship of the Paramatma.
For the most part, sexual passion becomes stronger when there are provocations from outside. All of you know that sexual desire is provoked when you listen to sexy songs; when you see sexy movies; and when you read sexy books. The sexual passion grows stronger even on account of a contact with men and women who are excessively passionate. In the same manner, the sexual passion is provoked when you eat spicy and stimulating food and when you drink liquors.
The effect of a strong sexual passion falls on the body. A strong sexual passion produces an evil effect on the mind also. On account of a strong sexual passion, man's body grows weak and he will have to suffer from many physical ailments. Even his mind becomes weak. For instance, the power of memory grows weak. Irritability increases. The nature of the man becomes upset. He does not have the enthusiasm to do
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