80409283-Kriya-Yoga-Journal-2012

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ournal 2012

2012

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- Paramahamsa Hariharananda

Paramahamsa Hariharananda

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2012

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Divine Teachings

„Once life is purified,

a worthy disciple becomes

a reflection of the Master.

The Master is the tree, and

the disciple is the fruit.“

Paramahamsa Prajnanananda Paramahamsa Prajnanananda

„All roads of ultimate

liberation are closed, whether

one’s work is righteous or

unrighteous, unless one’s sense

of body, mind, intellect and ego

completely wither away and dies

in the infinite essence.“

„Breath is what sustains

your body. It is because of

the breath that your body

is active and alive. Breath

is your life and love. Breath

is your real treasure.“

Paramahamsa Hariharananda Paramahamsa Hariharananda

„Shun all thoughts

about the past and future,

do all your work with your

attention fixed on your

breath (prana).“

Lahiri Mahasaya Lahiri Mahasaya

„As a mortal being you

are limited, but as a child of

God you are unlimited.“

Paramahamsa

Paramahamsa YYoganandaogananda

„The door of Kriya Yoga

is open only to earnest seekers

and sadhakas.“

Babaji Maharaj Babaji Maharaj Babaji Babaji Maharaj

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Divine Teachings

„Man has enough time

for self-development

for self-development.

.

Start now!“

Sanyal Mahasaya Sanyal Mahasaya

„The practice of Kriya Yoga

is the practice of self-analysis.“

„Paths are many, but the goal

is one. Religions are many,

but God is one. Scriptures are

many, but Truth is one.“

„A quiet place is not

always required for

always required for meditation.

meditation.

When a person practices

Kriya Yoga, he can switch

off the five sense

off the five sense telephones

telephones

and get quietness or calmness

wherever he is.“

„Keep control over your

tongue, to gain control

over your life.“

Sanyal Mahasaya Sanyal Mahasaya

„We can find the whole

universe reflected in the

human body. The more the

sadhakas (seekers) advance

in their ultimate voyage to

God-realiza

tion, the

tion, the more

more

they realize the veracity and

prof

undi

undity of

ty of

tatt

tattvas o

vas o

f the

universe indwelling in

their own bodies through

the science of yoga.“

Swami Shri

Swami Shri YYukteswar Giriukteswar Giri Sanyal

Sanyal

Mahasaya

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„Oh Beloved Gurudev, I want to be with you, not

ju

just st fofor r a a momomement nt or or a a dadayy, , bubut t foforerevever r anand d eveverer..

O Beloved Gurudev, you are the burning lamp

who lit the lamps of spiritual seekers. Every

spiritual seeker is lit from your flame. Let your

fl

flamame, e, yoyour ur loloveve, , yoyour ur wiwisdsdomom, , yoyour ur teteacachihingng,,

discipline, dedication, willpower, and

determinati-on shine in

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Content

Kriya

Kriya Yoga Yoga Centers Centers in in Europe Europe 22 Yoga is the perception of the Soul in every action

Yoga is the perception of the Soul in every action

(Foreword

(Foreword by by Peter Peter van van Breukelen) Breukelen) 33

The mysterious Monk The mysterious Monk

(by Paramahamsa Prajnanananda)

(by Paramahamsa Prajnanananda) 44 Nirvikalpa Samadhi

Nirvikalpa Samadhi

(by Paramahamsa Prajnanananda) 66 I

I am am for for All All 88

From

From Brahmacharya Brahmacharya to to Sannyasa Sannyasa 99

(by Paramahamsa Prajnanananda) (by Paramahamsa Prajnanananda)

Miles

Miles to to go go 1010

(by Paramahamsa Prajnanananda) (by Paramahamsa Prajnanananda)

2002 – The Journey Continues 2002 – The Journey Continues

(by Paramahamsa Prajnanananda) 1313 From

From Form Form to to Formless Formless 2424 Timeless

Timeless Soul Soul in in Time Time Frame Frame 2626 Paramahamsa

Paramahamsa Prajnanananda Prajnanananda 2929 Answers

Answers to to frequently frequently asked asked questions questions 3030 About

About Kriya Kriya Yoga Yoga 3131

Kriya

Kriya Yoga Yoga Programs Programs in in Tattendorf Tattendorf 3232 Regular

Regular activities/Directions activities/Directions to to Tattendorf Tattendorf 3333 Seminar

Seminar fee fee – – Tattendorf Tattendorf Seminars Seminars 3434 New

New Publications Publications 3535

About

About Hand Hand in in Hand Hand 3636

The

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International Kriya Yoga Centers International Kriya Yoga Centers

Austria

Austria Tattendorf - Tattendorf - Kriya YKriya Yoga oga CentreCentre Paramahamsa

Paramahamsa Prajnanananda Prajnanananda Pottendorferstrasse Pottendorferstrasse 6969 Swami

Swami Mangalananda Mangalananda Giri Giri A A - - 2523 2523 Tattendorf Tattendorf Ph:

Ph: +43 +43 2253 2253 81491 81491 [email protected]@aon.at Fax

Fax +43 +43 2253 2253 80462 80462 www.kriya.euwww.kriya.eu

Netherlands

Netherlands Sterksel Sterksel - - Kriya Kriya Yoga Yoga CentrumCentrum Rajarshi

Rajarshi Peter Peter van van Breukelen Breukelen Heerzerweg Heerzerweg 7, 7, 6029 6029 PP PP SterkselSterksel Ph:

Ph: + + 31 31 40 40 2265576 2265576 [email protected]@worldonline.nl Fax

Fax + + 31 31 40 40 2265612 2265612 www.kriyayoga-meditatie.nlwww.kriyayoga-meditatie.nl

USA

USA Kriya Yoga InstituteKriya Yoga Institute Ph:

Ph: +1 +1 305 305 247 247 1960 1960 24757 24757 SW SW 167 167 Ave.Ave. Fax. +1

Fax. +1 305 305 2481951 2481951 Homestead, Homestead, FL FL 33031 33031 – – 13641364 [email protected]

[email protected] www.kriya.org

www.kriya.org

India, Orissa

India, Orissa Balighai AshramBalighai Ashram Tel.

Tel. +91 +91 6752 6752 2246788 2246788 Hariharananda Hariharananda GurukulamGurukulam Post. Chaittanna, Puri – 2 Post. Chaittanna, Puri – 2 Tel.

Tel. +91 +91 671 671 2491724 2491724 Cuttack Cuttack , , Kriya Kriya Yoga Yoga AshramAshram Nimpur p.o. Jagatpur

Nimpur p.o. Jagatpur Cuttack 754021

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Yoga is the perception of the Soul in every action

Dear Kriya friends, Dear Kriya friends,

This year it is 10 years since our beloved Gurudev Baba This year it is 10 years since our beloved Gurudev Baba Hariharanandaji left his physical body. His life was a life of Hariharanandaji left his physical body. His life was a life of divinity. He would remain continuously in a state of God divinity. He would remain continuously in a state of God consciousness. Such a master is very rare in this universe and we consciousness. Such a master is very rare in this universe and we were very fortunate to be in his presence. However it is not were very fortunate to be in his presence. However it is not necessary to be in his physical company to experience that he is necessary to be in his physical company to experience that he is alive and with us, through the precious Kriya Yoga and through his alive and with us, through the precious Kriya Yoga and through his teachings.

teachings.

So let us all meditate sincerely and that through this he will give So let us all meditate sincerely and that through this he will give his blessings to all of us.

his blessings to all of us.

Baba Hariharanandaji told us: Baba Hariharanandaji told us:

“Yoga is the perception of the Soul in every action. People are “Yoga is the perception of the Soul in every action. People are busy with d

busy with different workifferent works, so ths, so they forgey forget God, the Soet God, the Soul.ul.

The power of God remains in your body temple and he activates in The power of God remains in your body temple and he activates in you. He helps you to do the work, so intelligent persons try to

you. He helps you to do the work, so intelligent persons try to perceive th

perceive the Soul in eve Soul in every action. ery action. They realizThey realize that the Soul e that the Soul is theis the sole doer in this body house.

sole doer in this body house.

Without Soul, nothing is possible. Without Soul this body cannot Without Soul, nothing is possible. Without Soul this body cannot exist. This is the basic principle of Kriya Yoga: to perceive Soul in exist. This is the basic principle of Kriya Yoga: to perceive Soul in every breath, in every moment. Then you are free

every breath, in every moment. Then you are free and liberated.and liberated. Then you are in knowledge, consciousness and Then you are in knowledge, consciousness and super-conscious-ness. Through this you will attain wisdom i.e. Self-realization.” ness. Through this you will attain wisdom i.e. Self-realization.” May the blessings of God and Gurus be with you.

May the blessings of God and Gurus be with you. In divine friendship,

In divine friendship,

Peter van Breukelen Peter van Breukelen

(President of Kriya Yoga Centre Vienna) (President of Kriya Yoga Centre Vienna)

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The mysterious Monk The mysterious Monk

Excerpt from “River of Comp

Excerpt from “River of Compassion”assion”

God is omniscient. The scriptures say,

God is omniscient. The scriptures say, yadrishi yadrishi bhavanar bhavanar yasyayasya siddhir

siddhir bhavati bhavati tadrishi:tadrishi: “As is the desire, so is the success.”“As is the desire, so is the success.” Persistent effort, perseverance, self-discipline, and meditation will Persistent effort, perseverance, self-discipline, and meditation will bring

bring success success in in one’s one’s life. life. During During this this period period of of intenseintense sadhana sadhana,, Brahmachari Rabinarayan enjoyed both visible and invisible help Brahmachari Rabinarayan enjoyed both visible and invisible help from the Divine. Once while he was meditating and observing silence from the Divine. Once while he was meditating and observing silence in his closed room, somebody shouting like a madman knocked on the in his closed room, somebody shouting like a madman knocked on the door. When Brahmachariji opened the door, a strange sight confronted door. When Brahmachariji opened the door, a strange sight confronted him. Although the stranger’s dress and appearance suggested a him. Although the stranger’s dress and appearance suggested a madman, his face and eyes radiated inner peace and love. This madman, his face and eyes radiated inner peace and love. This wild-looking character entered the room and studied the Saraswati idol that looking character entered the room and studied the Saraswati idol that Rabinarayan had made. He asked why there is a woman in the room of Rabinarayan had made. He asked why there is a woman in the room of a

a brahmacharibrahmachari meditating in seclusion. Of course this was a verymeditating in seclusion. Of course this was a very strange remark, but Rabinarayan understood the inner meaning, which strange remark, but Rabinarayan understood the inner meaning, which was to perceive and experience

was to perceive and experience advaita,advaita, the non-dual state. Then thethe non-dual state. Then the mysterious caller said he was hungry. Brahmachari Rabinarayan mysterious caller said he was hungry. Brahmachari Rabinarayan offered him a plate of sweets made of milk and sugar. He accepted offered him a plate of sweets made of milk and sugar. He accepted them, and holding them before the statue of Saraswati, casually them, and holding them before the statue of Saraswati, casually addressed her: “Eat, eat…” His words were neither a mantra nor a addressed her: “Eat, eat…” His words were neither a mantra nor a formal prayer, but when he spoke them, two rays of sweet smoke, like formal prayer, but when he spoke them, two rays of sweet smoke, like the kind arising from a burning incense stick, swirled out of the eyes the kind arising from a burning incense stick, swirled out of the eyes of the Saraswati statue and settled onto the plate. The phenomenon of the Saraswati statue and settled onto the plate. The phenomenon astonished Brahmachari Rabinarayan, who quickly realized that his astonished Brahmachari Rabinarayan, who quickly realized that his visitor was no ordinary man, but an extraordinary man in disguise. visitor was no ordinary man, but an extraordinary man in disguise. The stranger ate some of the sweets, and Brahmachari Rabinarayan The stranger ate some of the sweets, and Brahmachari Rabinarayan wished for a little piece, for they had become holy

wished for a little piece, for they had become holy prasad prasad ..

People with a little spiritual prowess may flaunt it for name, fame, and People with a little spiritual prowess may flaunt it for name, fame, and public applause. But ofte

public applause. But often, advanced yogis shun pubn, advanced yogis shun publicity. They movelicity. They move incognito through the world. Rabinarayan’s visitor was one such holy incognito through the world. Rabinarayan’s visitor was one such holy man, who then gave him some practical instructions in spiritual life to man, who then gave him some practical instructions in spiritual life to help him achieve realization. This type of encounter between help him achieve realization. This type of encounter between Brahmachari Rabinarayan and the wandering holy man is not a Brahmachari Rabinarayan and the wandering holy man is not a miracle or accident. Such experiences are the fruits of heard labor in miracle or accident. Such experiences are the fruits of heard labor in loving, faithful, spiritual practice. The strange monk taught loving, faithful, spiritual practice. The strange monk taught

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invited Rabinarayan to come to visit him, and several times, he did. invited Rabinarayan to come to visit him, and several times, he did. Nothing else

Nothing else is known is known concerning the whereabouts of concerning the whereabouts of this mysteriousthis mysterious holy man, but his presence in Rabinarayan’s life was no doubt a holy man, but his presence in Rabinarayan’s life was no doubt a divine blessing.

divine blessing.



Excerpt from the talk given by Excerpt from the talk given by

Paramahamsa Hariharananda at All India Conference of the Paramahamsa Hariharananda at All India Conference of the Divine Life Society at Barabati Stadium, Cuttack, in 1974 Divine Life Society at Barabati Stadium, Cuttack, in 1974

In Chanakya Niti, it is said: In Chanakya Niti, it is said:

sadhunam darshanam punyam sadhunam darshanam punyam tirtha bhuta hi sadhavah

tirtha bhuta hi sadhavah tirtham phalati kalena tirtham phalati kalena

sadyah sadhu samagamah sadyah sadhu samagamah

“It is auspicious and meritorious to glimpse holy persons; they are “It is auspicious and meritorious to glimpse holy persons; they are the personification of holy places of pilgrimage. Visiting holy places the personification of holy places of pilgrimage. Visiting holy places on a pilgrimage gives results in time, but visiting holy people gives on a pilgrimage gives results in time, but visiting holy people gives instant results.”

instant results.”

Sadhus

Sadhus are always undertaking inner pilgrimages of forgiveness, self-are always undertaking inner pilgrimages of forgiveness, self-control, truthfulness, and joy. Inspiration, devotion, and inner control, truthfulness, and joy. Inspiration, devotion, and inner strength flow into our heart just by seeing them. The fruits of visiting strength flow into our heart just by seeing them. The fruits of visiting holy places

holy places (tirthas)(tirthas) are less in comparison to visiting holy people.are less in comparison to visiting holy people. The benefits of beholding

The benefits of beholding sadhussadhus are immediate and profuse.are immediate and profuse. Listening to the nectar-like words of wisdom from the mouth of Listening to the nectar-like words of wisdom from the mouth of

sadhus

sadhus, practicing their truth-embedded instructions, and then, practicing their truth-embedded instructions, and then contemplating, conceiving and meditating on them, will yield good contemplating, conceiving and meditating on them, will yield good results in life. Adversity, bewilderment, despondency, and immorality results in life. Adversity, bewilderment, despondency, and immorality have punctuated the everyday life of human beings not only in India, have punctuated the everyday life of human beings not only in India, but everywhere. Surrendering to and taking refuge in highly but everywhere. Surrendering to and taking refuge in highly Self-realized souls and practicing their truth-laden words in everyday life realized souls and practicing their truth-laden words in everyday life will certainly foster a spiritual revolution among the people. There is will certainly foster a spiritual revolution among the people. There is no doubt about it.

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Nirvikalpa Samadhi Nirvikalpa Samadhi

Excerpt from “River of Compassion” by Paramahamsa Prajnanananda

As a plant grows slowly with the care of the gardener and, in due As a plant grows slowly with the care of the gardener and, in due course, bears flowers and fruits, Brahmachari Rabinarayan’s journey course, bears flowers and fruits, Brahmachari Rabinarayan’s journey on the path of Self-Realization slowly progressed. Along the way, he on the path of Self-Realization slowly progressed. Along the way, he knew many inner experiences and the taste of different stages of knew many inner experiences and the taste of different stages of samadhi

samadhi. During the year of 1944 to 1945, he was freed from the. During the year of 1944 to 1945, he was freed from the turmoil of the lower centers (chakras) and became more absorbed in turmoil of the lower centers (chakras) and became more absorbed in the superconscious stage. The period from 1945 to 1948 was the most the superconscious stage. The period from 1945 to 1948 was the most significant in his spiritual life.

significant in his spiritual life.

Once while he was meditating in his closed room at the Puri ashram, Once while he was meditating in his closed room at the Puri ashram, he entered into a deep state. His body slowly fell over and lay near the he entered into a deep state. His body slowly fell over and lay near the window; his head bled from an injury inflicted by the fall. The blood window; his head bled from an injury inflicted by the fall. The blood was flowing under the door, and outside, crows were drinking the was flowing under the door, and outside, crows were drinking the fresh blood. When Swami Satyanandaji saw the crows and blood, he fresh blood. When Swami Satyanandaji saw the crows and blood, he came outside and saw that the blood was coming from Brahmachari came outside and saw that the blood was coming from Brahmachari Rabinarayan’s room. Forcing the locked door open, he observed the Rabinarayan’s room. Forcing the locked door open, he observed the body of Brahm

body of Brahmachari Rabinachari Rabinarayan on the garayan on the ground. He felt no puround. He felt no pulse, butlse, but the body was not cold, so he massaged the soles of Brahmachari’s the body was not cold, so he massaged the soles of Brahmachari’s feet, the palms of his hands, and his chest to bring him back to his feet, the palms of his hands, and his chest to bring him back to his senses.

senses.

On another occasion, Brahmachari Rabinarayan had gone to On another occasion, Brahmachari Rabinarayan had gone to Ketakijhar forest to meditate. He usually came back to the ashram Ketakijhar forest to meditate. He usually came back to the ashram before dark

before dark, but on that d, but on that day he did not reay he did not return. A resideturn. A resident student ont student of thef the ashram went to the forest in search of him, carrying a light and calling ashram went to the forest in search of him, carrying a light and calling loudly “Brahmachariji ! Brahmachariji !” His own voice echoed in the loudly “Brahmachariji ! Brahmachariji !” His own voice echoed in the dark silence, but no reply came from Brahmachari Rabinarayan. After dark silence, but no reply came from Brahmachari Rabinarayan. After a long search, the student finally found Brahmachari’s body leaning a long search, the student finally found Brahmachari’s body leaning against a tree, looking almost dead and showing no sign of breath or against a tree, looking almost dead and showing no sign of breath or pulse.

pulse. Frightened, Frightened, the the student student prodded prodded the the body body while while shouting shouting inin panic,

panic, “Brahmacha“Brahmachariji"!” riji"!” Much Much to to his his relief, relief, BrahmachaBrahmachari ri graduallygradually regained body consciousness and opened his eyes. As if awakening regained body consciousness and opened his eyes. As if awakening from a long sleep, he asked, “Where am I?” In a little while he from a long sleep, he asked, “Where am I?” In a little while he regained complete consciousness, but he was unable to walk regained complete consciousness, but he was unable to walk unassisted. Only with the physical support of this strong young man unassisted. Only with the physical support of this strong young man

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This was how Brahmachari Rabinarayan attained the extremely rare This was how Brahmachari Rabinarayan attained the extremely rare state of

state of nirvikalpa samadhinirvikalpa samadhi. In the yogic scriptures, it is said that after . In the yogic scriptures, it is said that after attaining

attaining nirvikalpa samadhi,nirvikalpa samadhi, very few return to physicalvery few return to physical consciousness. Only a blessed few come back as God’s instruments to consciousness. Only a blessed few come back as God’s instruments to lead other seekers on the spiritual path to fulfill His divine mission. lead other seekers on the spiritual path to fulfill His divine mission. After 1948, through deep meditation, he was

After 1948, through deep meditation, he was able to reach this stage of able to reach this stage of samadhi

samadhi at any time he wished.at any time he wished.

In the history of modern saints and sages, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, In the history of modern saints and sages, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Lahiri Mahasaya, Swami Shriyukteswarji, and Paramahamsa Lahiri Mahasaya, Swami Shriyukteswarji, and Paramahamsa Yoganandaji were also able to experience this state at will. In the Yoganandaji were also able to experience this state at will. In the Vedic literature, it is said,

Vedic literature, it is said, brahmavid brahmaiva bhavati:brahmavid brahmaiva bhavati: “The“The knower of Brahman is Brahman.” One who has penetrated into the knower of Brahman is Brahman.” One who has penetrated into the veil of nature’s meadows and perceived the illusive dance of

veil of nature’s meadows and perceived the illusive dance of mayamaya isis always absorbed in the ocean of bliss. The pure mind always anchors always absorbed in the ocean of bliss. The pure mind always anchors at

at brahmarandhrabrahmarandhra (the door of the divine), also known as(the door of the divine), also known as sahasrara sahasrara,, the fontanel in the crown of the head. Once this closed door is opened, the fontanel in the crown of the head. Once this closed door is opened, it is open forever, enabling one always to be charged with divine it is open forever, enabling one always to be charged with divine consciousness and supernormal power. Brahmachari Rabinarayan had consciousness and supernormal power. Brahmachari Rabinarayan had achieved this rare state of

achieved this rare state of samadhi samadhi, which was observed by many, which was observed by many people, includ

people, including doctoring doctors and scs and scientists ientists in both the Ein both the East and Weast and West.st.

Fire, sin, and truth cannot be kept hidden. They always reveal Fire, sin, and truth cannot be kept hidden. They always reveal themselves. Slowly, the devotees at the ashram recognized how themselves. Slowly, the devotees at the ashram recognized how Brahmachar

Brahmachari Rabinarayan had changed. The i Rabinarayan had changed. The serenityserenity, bliss, , bliss, and joy of and joy of contentment in his countenance proved that he was well established in contentment in his countenance proved that he was well established in this state of wisdom.

this state of wisdom.



Life on this Earth, in this body, is merely a preparation, a step Life on this Earth, in this body, is merely a preparation, a step

towards the higher life. Life is divine worship. towards the higher life. Life is divine worship.

Paramahamsa Hariharananda

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I am for All I am for All

„Do you think that I am living for myself? Do you not know that I „Do you think that I am living for myself? Do you not know that I am for all? My life is not for me – it is

am for all? My life is not for me – it is for all.” These words were hisfor all.” These words were his constant reminder to those who lived close to him. “A candle burns constant reminder to those who lived close to him. “A candle burns not for itself, but for others. Similarly, I live for the emancipation not for itself, but for others. Similarly, I live for the emancipation and liberation of others. I eat for others. I work for others. I do and liberation of others. I eat for others. I work for others. I do everything

everything for others.” for others.” Such was his divine liSuch was his divine life and messfe and message for all.age for all. One who does only for one´s own self is selfish. One who serves all One who does only for one´s own self is selfish. One who serves all is free and divine.

is free and divine.

The lives of great people exemplify beautiful qualities through their The lives of great people exemplify beautiful qualities through their ordinary way of living and behaving. Through their lives flow love ordinary way of living and behaving. Through their lives flow love and wisdom, helping us to know the reality and truth of life. Like and wisdom, helping us to know the reality and truth of life. Like lighthouses in the night on the vast, worldly ocean, they illuminate lighthouses in the night on the vast, worldly ocean, they illuminate our way.

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From Brahmacharya to Sannyasa From Brahmacharya to Sannyasa

From Brahmachari Rabinarayan to Swami

From Brahmachari Rabinarayan to Swami Hariharananda GiriHariharananda Giri

Excerpt from “River of Compassion” by Paramahamsa Prajnanananda

Sannyasa,

Sannyasa, or the path of monastic life, involves inner or the path of monastic life, involves inner transform

transformation through ation through a a self-discipself-disciplined, divine lined, divine existence.existence. There are two types of

There are two types of sannyas sannyas:: vidvat sannyasvidvat sannyas, who enter , who enter monastic life after realization, and

monastic life after realization, and vividisha sannyasvividisha sannyas, who, who embrace monkhood to attain Self-realization. Blessed are embrace monkhood to attain Self-realization. Blessed are those who sincerely embrace this life from the core of the those who sincerely embrace this life from the core of the heart, not owing to emotion or the influence of others. In the heart, not owing to emotion or the influence of others. In the scriptures it is said: “One who carries a water pot and staff in scriptures it is said: “One who carries a water pot and staff in the hand becomes divine.” In essence, this means, one who has the hand becomes divine.” In essence, this means, one who has his spine (staff) and brain (water pot) under complete control his spine (staff) and brain (water pot) under complete control is divine. Such a person was Brahmachari Rabinarayan. He led is divine. Such a person was Brahmachari Rabinarayan. He led a strictly celibate life of sincere meditation and achieved the a strictly celibate life of sincere meditation and achieved the rarest state of

rarest state of nirvikalpa samadhinirvikalpa samadhi.. Rabinarayan’s twenty years of

Rabinarayan’s twenty years of brahmacharibrahmachari life ended on Maylife ended on May 27, 1959. Consulting the Indian calendar, Jagadguru 27, 1959. Consulting the Indian calendar, Jagadguru Shankaracharya chose the 13

Shankaracharya chose the 13thth day of Vaisakha as the day for day of Vaisakha as the day for Rabinarayan’s initiation into monastic life. At the end of the Rabinarayan’s initiation into monastic life. At the end of the sannyasa

sannyasa ceremony, the guru gives the robe, staff, and name toceremony, the guru gives the robe, staff, and name to the initiate. Jagadguru Bharati Krishna Teertha gave the initiate. Jagadguru Bharati Krishna Teertha gave Rabinarayan the monastic name of Swami Hariharananda Giri. Rabinarayan the monastic name of Swami Hariharananda Giri. “Swami” is a title conferred on a monk, and “Giri” is one of “Swami” is a title conferred on a monk, and “Giri” is one of the ten orders of the guru-disciple monks chosen by Adi the ten orders of the guru-disciple monks chosen by Adi Shankaracharya.

Shankaracharya. (* 788 -† 820)(* 788 -† 820)

As Jagadguru Shankaracharya explainded, the name As Jagadguru Shankaracharya explainded, the name Hariharananda consists of three words:

Hariharananda consists of three words: hari, hara, and hari, hara, and ananda.

ananda. Hari Hari and and harahara are two aspects of the divine trinity – are two aspects of the divine trinity – sustenance and dissolution of the universe – and

sustenance and dissolution of the universe – and anandaananda isis bliss.

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Miles to Go

Excerpt from

Excerpt from““ River of Compassion“ River of Compassion“ by Paramahamsa by Paramahamsa PrajnananPrajnananandaanda

Paramahamsa Hariharananda taught that one who travels, and one Paramahamsa Hariharananda taught that one who travels, and one who serves the old and wise, is rewarded with a purified intellect; who serves the old and wise, is rewarded with a purified intellect; such a person’s knowledge expands like a drop of oil spilled on such a person’s knowledge expands like a drop of oil spilled on water. Living mostly in seclusion in his early years, he later accepted water. Living mostly in seclusion in his early years, he later accepted the role of teacher and spiritual guide. Then, he traveled far and the role of teacher and spiritual guide. Then, he traveled far and wide. Travel brings new experiences and one has to face new wide. Travel brings new experiences and one has to face new challenges. Paramahamsaji used to say that true knowledge is like a challenges. Paramahamsaji used to say that true knowledge is like a friend and guide on one’s own journey. One’s trust in God and gurus friend and guide on one’s own journey. One’s trust in God and gurus becomes st

becomes stronger as ronger as one roam one roam about the world about the world to learn ato learn and to teach.nd to teach.

A bridge between the East and the West

Paramahamsaji lived in India until 1974, when he started traveling to Paramahamsaji lived in India until 1974, when he started traveling to the West. From 1974 until 1996 he traveled back and forth between the West. From 1974 until 1996 he traveled back and forth between India and other countries in Europe, and North and South America, India and other countries in Europe, and North and South America, spending a few months in the West and few months in the East. Thus spending a few months in the West and few months in the East. Thus his life became a bridge between the East and West.

his life became a bridge between the East and West.

What did he do to bridge the East and West? History shows that What did he do to bridge the East and West? History shows that India’s ancient spiritual wisdom is unique, but the West, with its India’s ancient spiritual wisdom is unique, but the West, with its priorities of effi

priorities of efficiency, indusciency, industry, and scienctry, and science, has become, has become the beacone the beacon of modern civilization. The spiritual wisdom of the East, especially of modern civilization. The spiritual wisdom of the East, especially of India is needed in the West to bring more calmness, love, and of India is needed in the West to bring more calmness, love, and peace

peace in in daily daily life. life. At At the the same same time, time, disciplindiscipline, e, punctuapunctuality, lity, hard hard word, and other Western qualities are needed in India to bring word, and other Western qualities are needed in India to bring modern ways of thinking and living.

modern ways of thinking and living.

Swami Vivekananda brought to the West the spiritual wisdom of Swami Vivekananda brought to the West the spiritual wisdom of India, but he left much work for the generations to come. India, but he left much work for the generations to come. Paramahamsa Yoganandaji also traveled to the West, and although Paramahamsa Yoganandaji also traveled to the West, and although he intended to stay only for a short time, he settled down in the USA he intended to stay only for a short time, he settled down in the USA permanently

permanently. . What What he he brougbrought ht from from India, India, he he gave gave to to the the West.West. Paramahamsa Hariharananda’s life was a life of balance. He wanted Paramahamsa Hariharananda’s life was a life of balance. He wanted to bring the goodness of the East and distribute it to the West, and to bring the goodness of the East and distribute it to the West, and take the goodness of the West to

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Although the Eastern scriptures as the Bhagavad Gita or the Although the Eastern scriptures as the Bhagavad Gita or the Upanishads, and the scriptures in the West such as the Bible, appear Upanishads, and the scriptures in the West such as the Bible, appear to be the holy books of two completely different religions, to be the holy books of two completely different religions, Paramahamsa Hariharananda found a synthesis between them and Paramahamsa Hariharananda found a synthesis between them and taught it to students in both India and the West.

taught it to students in both India and the West.

Paramahamsaji revealed the similarities in the messages of all these Paramahamsaji revealed the similarities in the messages of all these scriptures. His deep insight into the Bible has amazed many people. scriptures. His deep insight into the Bible has amazed many people. He was invited to speak in many churches during his travels in the He was invited to speak in many churches during his travels in the West, where scholars, priests, and nuns were impressed with his love West, where scholars, priests, and nuns were impressed with his love for Jesus and his thorough knowledge and understanding of the for Jesus and his thorough knowledge and understanding of the Bible. He always made a comparative study of the Bible and the Bible. He always made a comparative study of the Bible and the Gita, and the Bible and the Upanishads, to show how a common Gita, and the Bible and the Upanishads, to show how a common message can be found in these holy books, he encouraged his message can be found in these holy books, he encouraged his students to acquire this knowledge, to study deeply and to apply it in students to acquire this knowledge, to study deeply and to apply it in daily life.

daily life.

Although he was born in an orthodox Brahmin Hindu family and Although he was born in an orthodox Brahmin Hindu family and was raised in a very strict spiritual atmosphere, his love for all was raised in a very strict spiritual atmosphere, his love for all religions and his perception of their unity were remarkable. He went religions and his perception of their unity were remarkable. He went to churches and mosques; he met and had discussions with many to churches and mosques; he met and had discussions with many spiritual leaders of various religions.

spiritual leaders of various religions.

His message was universal. People asked him: “What is your His message was universal. People asked him: “What is your religion?” He would usually reply, “My religion is the religion of religion?” He would usually reply, “My religion is the religion of breath.” The breath

breath.” The breath is the is the link to link to God, and God, and through this link through this link one canone can achieve calmness, divinity, and godhood. These can be achieved achieve calmness, divinity, and godhood. These can be achieved only through the breath. When one speaks of breath, there is no only through the breath. When one speaks of breath, there is no sectarian belief; there is no religious boundary which obstructs, sectarian belief; there is no religious boundary which obstructs, because

because everyone everyone breathes. breathes. ParamahamParamahamsaji saji referred referred to to the the BibleBible (John 4:23-24) and said, “The worshipper of God should worship (John 4:23-24) and said, “The worshipper of God should worship him in spirit and truth.” He explained that one meaning of spirit is him in spirit and truth.” He explained that one meaning of spirit is breath;

breath; God God is is breath. breath. We We should should worshworship ip God God through through breath. breath. HeHe had a unique and fascinating way of explaining scriptural truths in had a unique and fascinating way of explaining scriptural truths in simple, practical terms.

simple, practical terms.



Synthesis of Scriptural Wisdom

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2002 – The Journey Continues

Excerpt from „Last Decade“ by Paramah

Excerpt from „Last Decade“ by Paramahamsa Prajnananandaamsa Prajnanananda

Back in the USA Back in the USA

This year (2002) I left India and came straight to the USA after the This year (2002) I left India and came straight to the USA after the brahmachari training course,

brahmachari training course, reaching the reaching the Miami ashram Miami ashram on on October 2,October 2, coincidentally the anniversary of my coming to the West in 1994. coincidentally the anniversary of my coming to the West in 1994. Through your grace, eight years of a life of transformation had passed Through your grace, eight years of a life of transformation had passed filled with your love and divine guidance and ceaseless activity. In the filled with your love and divine guidance and ceaseless activity. In the evening I spent some time with you, Gurudev, and you were asking evening I spent some time with you, Gurudev, and you were asking about all the training programs.

about all the training programs.

The next morning at 10:30 I had to go to Bogotá in South America. The next morning at 10:30 I had to go to Bogotá in South America. Early in the morning, you wanted me to be with you. The passing of Early in the morning, you wanted me to be with you. The passing of your elder brother in July was still painful for you.

your elder brother in July was still painful for you.

When you spoke with me, your speech was related to death. I was When you spoke with me, your speech was related to death. I was curious why you were talking so much about death. I thought it was curious why you were talking so much about death. I thought it was because I had lo

because I had lost my father. I st my father. I did not know that yodid not know that you were preparing u were preparing meme for what was going to happen.

for what was going to happen. Advice on Organization

Advice on Organization

On October 3, I was supposed to go to Bogotá to resume my travels. I On October 3, I was supposed to go to Bogotá to resume my travels. I was in your room before 5:30 a.m. silently meditating. When you got was in your room before 5:30 a.m. silently meditating. When you got up, you had a lot to say to me. After your breakfast until 10:00 a.m., for up, you had a lot to say to me. After your breakfast until 10:00 a.m., for a little over three hours, you lay on your bed and talked. Normally it a little over three hours, you lay on your bed and talked. Normally it was your rest time, but on this day, you did not want to rest. One of the was your rest time, but on this day, you did not want to rest. One of the mothers who took care of you kept coming into the room saying that mothers who took care of you kept coming into the room saying that you should rest, trying to close the curtain over the sliding glass door. you should rest, trying to close the curtain over the sliding glass door. But you were very strict. You said you had a lot of urgent matters to But you were very strict. You said you had a lot of urgent matters to discuss with me so she should go. I felt

discuss with me so she should go. I felt a little guilty at a little guilty at first, feeling likefirst, feeling like I was spoiling your rest time. But you wanted to speak in detail, I was spoiling your rest time. But you wanted to speak in detail, elaborately, about the future of the organization, the future of different elaborately, about the future of the organization, the future of different people,

people, and and the the future future course course of of action, action, explaining explaining how how I I should should dealdeal with

with situationssituations..

You were asking about everything in detail in India, in Europe, and here You were asking about everything in detail in India, in Europe, and here in the USA. You were completely happy with the way I was handling in the USA. You were completely happy with the way I was handling

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all the situations. You gave me clear-cut instructions about what to do, all the situations. You gave me clear-cut instructions about what to do, how to do it, and

how to do it, and how to move forward. You told me who would stay inhow to move forward. You told me who would stay in the organization and who would leave. You emphasized that the coming the organization and who would leave. You emphasized that the coming two years would be a very crucial, difficult period for me. At the same two years would be a very crucial, difficult period for me. At the same time you said, “I have left lots of trouble and difficulties with you. You time you said, “I have left lots of trouble and difficulties with you. You will not be unhappy with me. When I saw you, I saw your destiny. will not be unhappy with me. When I saw you, I saw your destiny. When I saw you, I felt joy in my heart that the Divine Mother, at least, When I saw you, I felt joy in my heart that the Divine Mother, at least, had sent someone who could be the instrument in my hands. had sent someone who could be the instrument in my hands. Throughout more than two decades, I have observed you and have seen Throughout more than two decades, I have observed you and have seen you in every situation.

you in every situation.

My soul is content that you are with me and doing my work. Your life My soul is content that you are with me and doing my work. Your life is blessed, a liberated life.” You blessed me and assured me that I would is blessed, a liberated life.” You blessed me and assured me that I would never be unhappy with the difficulties and the problems you left behind. never be unhappy with the difficulties and the problems you left behind. You also told me to remember that within the next two years time all You also told me to remember that within the next two years time all the problems would go away, and everything I did would flourish.

the problems would go away, and everything I did would flourish.

I have seen in my life that whatever you promised or blessed has come I have seen in my life that whatever you promised or blessed has come true. A little after 10:00 a.m., you asked me: “Have you packed your true. A little after 10:00 a.m., you asked me: “Have you packed your bags?”

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as you did every time someone left the ashram. With love, with joy, you as you did every time someone left the ashram. With love, with joy, you bid

bid farewell. farewell. You You hugghugged ed me me and and you you blessed blessed me me with with your your lovingloving touch. You went all the way to the gate of the ashram in your touch. You went all the way to the gate of the ashram in your wheelchair. This picture cannot be forgotten.

wheelchair. This picture cannot be forgotten. The last Planting

The last Planting On the 27

On the 27thth of October you wanted to plant a mango tree in your of October you wanted to plant a mango tree in your doctor´s garden. Since you first came to Homestead to live, we had been doctor´s garden. Since you first came to Homestead to live, we had been searching for a physician who could come to take care of you when searching for a physician who could come to take care of you when needed. We found a beautiful, loving, angelic doctor mother, Doctor needed. We found a beautiful, loving, angelic doctor mother, Doctor Barkett, living not far away. She readily accepted the invitation to be Barkett, living not far away. She readily accepted the invitation to be your doctor, and you had special affection for her. Many noticed that your doctor, and you had special affection for her. Many noticed that you were a joy to the doctors who treated you. Many times the doctor you were a joy to the doctors who treated you. Many times the doctor came just to see you, to feel better. You gave her a grafted mango tree. came just to see you, to feel better. You gave her a grafted mango tree. You grafted so many mango trees of good quality and good variety.

You grafted so many mango trees of good quality and good variety.

This was the divine gardener´s last planting. Taking a few disciples, you This was the divine gardener´s last planting. Taking a few disciples, you went in the van with a truckload of soil and the mango tree to the went in the van with a truckload of soil and the mango tree to the doctors’ residence. The doctor was surprised to see all this. You located doctors’ residence. The doctor was surprised to see all this. You located a place to plant the tree and explained how much to dig. You supervised a place to plant the tree and explained how much to dig. You supervised everything, and you told her how to take care of the tree. At the end of everything, and you told her how to take care of the tree. At the end of

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the planting, when the doctor asked you whether this made you happy, the planting, when the doctor asked you whether this made you happy, you said: “I am neither happy nor unhappy.” Perplexed by this and your you said: “I am neither happy nor unhappy.” Perplexed by this and your visit to her house, she asked, “Baba, why are you doing this for me?” visit to her house, she asked, “Baba, why are you doing this for me?” You replied, “Love.”

You replied, “Love.”

On October 28 you signed many documents and many papers including On October 28 you signed many documents and many papers including your last will. Although the will had been drawn up before, you wanted your last will. Although the will had been drawn up before, you wanted to modify it. The attorney came and the documents were signed. I to modify it. The attorney came and the documents were signed. I remembered that on October 3, you had told me, “I have come to this remembered that on October 3, you had told me, “I have come to this world happily. I will leave happily. Remember, you will not be world happily. I will leave happily. Remember, you will not be unhappy. Why are you so attached to me? What is there in this body? unhappy. Why are you so attached to me? What is there in this body? The body is born, and the body will die.”

The body is born, and the body will die.”

I was little emotional, with tears in my eye I asked you to whom I I was little emotional, with tears in my eye I asked you to whom I should be attached to other than you. You said, “No need.”

should be attached to other than you. You said, “No need.” You were telling me that you and I are one, and that

You were telling me that you and I are one, and that there is no separatethere is no separate existence. The beauty of the Guru manifests in the disciple. A sincere existence. The beauty of the Guru manifests in the disciple. A sincere disciple, with surrender and love, becomes one with the Guru. It is not disciple, with surrender and love, becomes one with the Guru. It is not really attachment; it is oneness. You taught me to perceive that oneness. really attachment; it is oneness. You taught me to perceive that oneness. Attachment exists where there is duality. When there is unity, there is Attachment exists where there is duality. When there is unity, there is oneness. The child and mother are not attached to each other, they are oneness. The child and mother are not attached to each other, they are one, although they appear as two. Mother Mary and Jesus are one. The one, although they appear as two. Mother Mary and Jesus are one. The experience of that oneness is beyond all attachment. This is pure love. experience of that oneness is beyond all attachment. This is pure love. In ordinary love there is attachment, but in pure love there is only In ordinary love there is attachment, but in pure love there is only oneness.

oneness.

You knew very well my love and devotion for you. You knew that the You knew very well my love and devotion for you. You knew that the time was coming when a physical association would no longer be time was coming when a physical association would no longer be possible. You told

possible. You told me several times me several times that when that when a mango is a mango is not ripe, it not ripe, it isis attachment, but once it is ripe, it will become detached from the tree attachment, but once it is ripe, it will become detached from the tree with even a little wind. The ripe mango is the beauty in the tree. I was with even a little wind. The ripe mango is the beauty in the tree. I was thinking about why you said, “No need.” Jesus said that the tree is thinking about why you said, “No need.” Jesus said that the tree is known by its fruit. If you are the tree, and we are the fruit, are we really known by its fruit. If you are the tree, and we are the fruit, are we really ready? You know everything better than what we think.

ready? You know everything better than what we think.

You also said at that time: “You will never allow an operation on my You also said at that time: “You will never allow an operation on my body. I do

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After signing the documents you were content and happy. The next day After signing the documents you were content and happy. The next day was my departure to Europe. Before your lunch I spent nearly an hour was my departure to Europe. Before your lunch I spent nearly an hour with you. When the food was ready, you told everyone to leave. You with you. When the food was ready, you told everyone to leave. You caught hold of both my hands, looked at me with a very piercing look, caught hold of both my hands, looked at me with a very piercing look, and kept on looking. I was thinking, “Gurudev, you told everybody that and kept on looking. I was thinking, “Gurudev, you told everybody that you had important things to say to me, but you did not say anything.” you had important things to say to me, but you did not say anything.” Your look however, spoke a lot. You hugged me and kissed my Your look however, spoke a lot. You hugged me and kissed my forehead. Then you spoke a few sentences about the swamis living in forehead. Then you spoke a few sentences about the swamis living in the ashram and said it was time for me to go to the airport.

the ashram and said it was time for me to go to the airport.

I did not know the significance of all this. Later I remembered and I did not know the significance of all this. Later I remembered and realized why. October 29 was the last day you came outside to bid realized why. October 29 was the last day you came outside to bid goodbye to me. I went to Europe with a heavy heart. I was concerned goodbye to me. I went to Europe with a heavy heart. I was concerned about the way you looked and that your health was not good. I did not about the way you looked and that your health was not good. I did not imagine that you were preparing to leave so soon.

imagine that you were preparing to leave so soon. A Call from Gurudev

A Call from Gurudev

Physically I was gone, but mentally I was trying to be closer and closer Physically I was gone, but mentally I was trying to be closer and closer to you, Gurudev. From Vienna, I went to Paris, then back to London. to you, Gurudev. From Vienna, I went to Paris, then back to London. When I came to London on November 23, I had my last telephone When I came to London on November 23, I had my last telephone conversation with you. Although you were speaking a little conversation with you. Although you were speaking a little inconsistently, you were very clear about what you were saying. You inconsistently, you were very clear about what you were saying. You asked me when I was coming to Miami. My usual schedule was to stay asked me when I was coming to Miami. My usual schedule was to stay away until February. I told you, “I will come very soon.” You said, away until February. I told you, “I will come very soon.” You said, “Come just now, don’t delay.”

“Come just now, don’t delay.” On the evening of the 23

On the evening of the 23rd rd you said, “Come just now.” To the mothersyou said, “Come just now.” To the mothers you said, “Open the door, Prajnananandaji is coming just now.” On the you said, “Open the door, Prajnananandaji is coming just now.” On the 24

24thth, I had a strange telephone call. I picked up the telephone and heard , I had a strange telephone call. I picked up the telephone and heard noise in the background. It was early in the morning, and it seemed that noise in the background. It was early in the morning, and it seemed that the background noise was related to your room. Something was going the background noise was related to your room. Something was going on. Were they taking you to the hospital? I did not know. I tried to on. Were they taking you to the hospital? I did not know. I tried to disconnect the telephone, but could not. I went to the program and from disconnect the telephone, but could not. I went to the program and from there I called the ashram to know about you, Gurudev.

there I called the ashram to know about you, Gurudev.

Canceling my program, I flew straight to Miami and went directly to Canceling my program, I flew straight to Miami and went directly to your room to see you. I found you lying on your bed, not talking, I your room to see you. I found you lying on your bed, not talking, I touched your feet and I bowed to you. You looked at me. I leaned over touched your feet and I bowed to you. You looked at me. I leaned over your body. You looked at me with your hands folded and smiled, but your body. You looked at me with your hands folded and smiled, but

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you did not speak. You touched my head. The doctor arrived and you did not speak. You touched my head. The doctor arrived and arrangements were made for you to go to the hospital.

arrangements were made for you to go to the hospital. In the Hospital

In the Hospital Nobody

Nobody knew knew what what to to expect. expect. InitiallyInitially, , it it appeared appeared that that it it would would bebe nothing more than a short visit so you could be thoroughly checked by nothing more than a short visit so you could be thoroughly checked by your divine physicians; as events unfolded however, you remained in your divine physicians; as events unfolded however, you remained in the hospital for a longer and longer period. The harsh reality began to the hospital for a longer and longer period. The harsh reality began to dawn on us all.

dawn on us all.

Slowly, you recovered the first night. You started singing songs and Slowly, you recovered the first night. You started singing songs and speaking with me. You said, “How are you?” I said, “I am all right".

speaking with me. You said, “How are you?” I said, “I am all right". You asked me, “Have you finished your work?” I said, “Yes.”

You asked me, “Have you finished your work?” I said, “Yes.” You said, “I have also finished everything, let us go.”

You said, “I have also finished everything, let us go.”

Until that moment, I did not know that you were preparing yourself to Until that moment, I did not know that you were preparing yourself to leave your body. You spoke in Bengali and others asked me what you leave your body. You spoke in Bengali and others asked me what you had said. I told them. That night we watched you carefully, and the next had said. I told them. That night we watched you carefully, and the next morning they did many other tests. At lunchtime, the Swamis brought morning they did many other tests. At lunchtime, the Swamis brought food for all of us. Soon you were

food for all of us. Soon you were moved to a room with all the facilities.moved to a room with all the facilities. Gurudev, most of your talk was related to India. Physically you were Gurudev, most of your talk was related to India. Physically you were here, but mentally you were in India. You asked me if I knew a here, but mentally you were in India. You asked me if I knew a particular

particular Bengali Bengali song. song. I I recited recited the the words, words, and and VidyadhishVidyadhishandajiandaji wrote them on paper. You looked at the paper while we sang the song. I wrote them on paper. You looked at the paper while we sang the song. I sang with love and you smiled. Your joy was our joy.

sang with love and you smiled. Your joy was our joy. On the 30

On the 30thth of November, you asked me about my father´s death: whatof November, you asked me about my father´s death: what happened and who did the

happened and who did the shraddha shraddha ceremony – the funeral rituals in aceremony – the funeral rituals in a Hindu Brahmin family. When I told you my elder brother did it, you Hindu Brahmin family. When I told you my elder brother did it, you said, “Why did your brother do it, why not you? Will you do one thing, said, “Why did your brother do it, why not you? Will you do one thing, a favor for me? Can you do the death rituals, even though for a monk a favor for me? Can you do the death rituals, even though for a monk nothing has to be done? Will you do it in a special way for me and your nothing has to be done? Will you do it in a special way for me and your father?” Until then, I did not know why you were talking about this. father?” Until then, I did not know why you were talking about this. During this period, when the doctors would ask you: “How are you During this period, when the doctors would ask you: “How are you Baba?” you would say, “I am all right. How are you?”

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On December 1, you asked me again, “Are you ready?” I said, “Yes, I On December 1, you asked me again, “Are you ready?” I said, “Yes, I am ready.” You said, “I am also ready; let us go.” This was the second am ready.” You said, “I am also ready; let us go.” This was the second time you indicated that you were going.

time you indicated that you were going.

On the afternoon of December 2, you were immersed in

On the afternoon of December 2, you were immersed in bhava samadhibhava samadhi and the ecstatic state. Your mind was elsewhere. I sat on one side of and the ecstatic state. Your mind was elsewhere. I sat on one side of you, and Swami Shuddhanandaji was on the other side. You were lying you, and Swami Shuddhanandaji was on the other side. You were lying on the bed looking at us and then you started speaking in Bengali. You on the bed looking at us and then you started speaking in Bengali. You started speaking in such a beautiful voice about life on the other planes started speaking in such a beautiful voice about life on the other planes and the five streams of five vital energies going and merging in the and the five streams of five vital energies going and merging in the cosmic energy. You described your visit to Jagannath Temple and cosmic energy. You described your visit to Jagannath Temple and Kamakhya Temple in Assam. Your language was a special Bengali Kamakhya Temple in Assam. Your language was a special Bengali language similar to that of the writings of Bijoy Krishna.

language similar to that of the writings of Bijoy Krishna.

You have never spoken this kind of Bengali to me before. It was You have never spoken this kind of Bengali to me before. It was completely different, and you discussed how the life and fire

completely different, and you discussed how the life and fire pranas pranas merge in the Brahman. You described Kamakshaya Temple and going merge in the Brahman. You described Kamakshaya Temple and going there to meditate on the Divine Mother. We told you about our visit there to meditate on the Divine Mother. We told you about our visit Jagannath Temple and meditation on Lord Jagannath. You also asked Jagannath Temple and meditation on Lord Jagannath. You also asked which door of the four doors we entered through. We had used the which door of the four doors we entered through. We had used the southern or eastern door.

southern or eastern door.

On December 1, I wrote a letter and mailed it to a disciple. I had a On December 1, I wrote a letter and mailed it to a disciple. I had a feeling that you were preparing yourself for the onward journey. While feeling that you were preparing yourself for the onward journey. While you were in the hospital, I telephoned Debi Baba, your nephew, in India you were in the hospital, I telephoned Debi Baba, your nephew, in India almost every day. I asked the Miami ashram to relay information about almost every day. I asked the Miami ashram to relay information about your health to all the ashrams in India and Europe, and asked them to your health to all the ashrams in India and Europe, and asked them to continue the prayer service for this period.

continue the prayer service for this period. Your Forbearance

Your Forbearance

During your last days in the hospital, you spoke to me several times in During your last days in the hospital, you spoke to me several times in Bengali about spiritu

Bengali about spiritual life and how to keep the al life and how to keep the mind on God in spite of mind on God in spite of difficulties. In the hospital, I saw your pain and suffering. The doctors difficulties. In the hospital, I saw your pain and suffering. The doctors were amazed how you could rise above the pain and smile, with joy on were amazed how you could rise above the pain and smile, with joy on your beautiful face. And everyone started calling you “Baba.” When we your beautiful face. And everyone started calling you “Baba.” When we took you to have scans of the body, I was allowed to go in the room took you to have scans of the body, I was allowed to go in the room with you. You were saying “Why are you doing all these on me? I don’t with you. You were saying “Why are you doing all these on me? I don’t need them.” I usually said, “Baba, in a few moments it will be done, need them.” I usually said, “Baba, in a few moments it will be done,