Hari Om !!
Subodha Vedanta 04/05 - Talk by Swami Aparajitananda, given in CM Gokul, Bakersfield, California.
Pujya Swamiji, before proceeding to the next topic, summarises the importance of spiritual knowledge. He explains how the vision of oneness presented in the scriptures can address all our problems, whether they are social, economic, or personal.
While discussing the five types of faith outlined by Pujya Guruji, Pujya Swamiji clarifies that faith in oneself is not the same as the self-confidence that is often glorified. This faith in oneself stems from trust in the goodness of God and, therefore, does not lead to arrogance.
Sādhana Sādhya Vivekaḥ- importance of enquiry of means and goal.
This section of the text prompts us to analyse how and why knowledge is the means to self-realisation, unlike other goals in life. Even in spiritual pursuits, using the right means to achieve the right goal is of paramount importance.
While elaborating on this section, Pujya Swamiji discusses jñānam at three levels, providing a detailed explanation of 'dhyāna-janita jñāna' (knowledge that fructifies through consistent and sincere practice of dhyāna). He offers numerous practical tips to sadhakas on how to effectively practice nididhyāsana.
All the scriptures unanimously affirm that *gurukṛpā* (the grace of the Guru) is an essential factor on the spiritual path. Swamiji clarifies many common misconceptions regarding this topic.
Sādhana Vivekaḥ -Enquiry into spiritual practices?
Swamiji explains the importance of enquiring into both the means and the goal, as well as the various spiritual practices that should be employed at different stages of the spiritual journey. He points out that many people, despite being on the spiritual path for over 30 years, still act out of habit rather than true knowledge, due to their failure to properly investigate these subjects.
Pujya Swamiji offers complete clarity on antaranga sadhana (inner practices) and bahiranga sadhana (outer practices), explaining their purpose and results. He emphasizes the importance of practicing bahiranga sadhana, as without it, a sadhaka will not achieve the desired results from antaranga sadhana.
He summarizes this topic by saying purification/preparation of mind is called bahiranga sadhana, applying the mind is antaranga sadhana.
Māyā santaraṇam : Crossing over maya
In this section, the direct proof that we are under the influence of Māyā is explained. Swamiji elaborates on various definitions of Māyā and discusses how one can overcome it, which even the Lord describes as exceedingly difficult to transcend.
A unique feature of Māyā is that the more you try to escape it, the more you become entangled. Efforts to manage anger, the mind, and desires, if made without the support of Consciousness or God, are futile. It is an illusion of the ego to believe it can conquer its own vices. Can the ego, which itself is an illusion, truly overcome its own negativities?
So, how does one transcend Māyā? The greatest self-effort is sharanagati-surrender. Mastering the art of surrender is crucial, but surrender does not imply passive inaction.
Swamiji concludes the lecture by explaining the concepts of *Vidya Māyā* and *Avidya Māyā*.The next topic is- what is the purpose of this world?