Excerpts from Shivarathri discourse 12th March 2002
Our ancients enquired into the nature of divinity through many paths, but were not successful in recognising the reality. Hence, they started worshipping Prakriti (Nature). Thereafter, the Bharatiyas took to MurthiAradhana (idol-worship). Every creature that takes birth in this universe has a form (Murthi). Idols are inert in nature and do not possess the qualities of compassion, love, forbearance, etc. It is for this reason that some people are against idol-worship. This is ignorance. You use your forefinger to point a specific object, say, a flower or a tumbler. Similarly, idols are like pointers to Divinity.
Let the different faiths exist, let them flourish, let the glory of God be sung in all languages in a variety of tunes. That should be the ideal. Respect the differences between the faiths and recognize them as valid so far as they do not extinguish the flame of unity. - Saibaba
Sathya Sai Baba has inspired millions all around the world to lead a spiritual life based on five human values of Truth, Right Conduct, Love, Peace and Non-violence. He himself is a prime example of how one should lead a life of simplicity and use our resources for the benefit of others.
H2H Articles Feed Get the latest article feeds from Heart2Heart E-Journal and the Sai World.
CHARMING LITTLE PRAMOD SPARKLES AGAIN! “Every morning was agonizing. Worried of the next day we never slept peacefully any day. The tremendous pain that Pramod underwent while answering nature’s call was too much for us to endure day after day. His cries would break our heart!” said the father recalling those horrific days. As a mother, Jyothi’s ordeal was in fact most heartrending. “I do not remember sleeping or eating during that period; our attention was on him constantly. We were really tired and stressed out. The hospital in Bangalore offered to do the surgery, but we did not have that much money. We did not know where to go, what to do?” Family Time with Beloved Sai I am fortunate to have a loving family and I think people sense that love and it radiates to them. We have also been blessed and so very fortunate, as Baba personally sat with us and asked us what we were studying and gave us support and encouragement during our difficult years.He showed us that He sits in the center of all families, if we just invite Him in. He showed us how to have a family meeting. THE KODAI FESTIVAL 2009 day Six “We had brought a shell from a place where they inscribe any text on it on the spot. So, we had placed the words, ‘We love You, Swami!’ And as we were showing our gifts to Swami, we thought we will pray to Him to accept this gift and keep it with Him. However, what actually happened was when we showed this to Swami and made our prayer, although He did not accept it, He taught us a very sweet lesson. He said: ‘You must not write “We love You, Swami!” outside. You must write it in your heart!’” THE KODAI FESTIVAL 2009 day Five Ever since Swami started taking students, four items became a regular part of the trip. They were: outings which, in olden days included a full picnic, visit to the Hill Top Bungalow, horse riding and finally shopping. THE KODAI FESTIVAL 2009 day four Bhagavan crosses all time barriers when He materialises certain things. Once He created the ring worn by Lord Rama that was presented to Him by His father Dasaratha. It was a diamond ring, and Swami was smiling. As He looked around, He created another – this time a sapphire ring that was presented to Lord Rama by
His father-in-law, Emperor Janaka. Spiritual Q & A Firstly, people repeat stotras, because that is what tradition calls for. Secondly, they believe, as in olden days, that God would be pleased by such a chant. Let me mention at this point that even it is repetitive, God does feel happy when we try do something good by way of loving Him. Thirdly, as years pass and we become mature, the stotras that once seemed repetitive, suddenly start acquiring deep meaning. Spiritual Q & A QUESTION: What is the best form of meditation for improving our concentration?
QUESTION:If God is everywhere, why do we need to go to temples or holy places like India? The Divine Etches The Portraits Of His Exemplary Parents An alumnus of Sri Sathya Sai University, Madhusudan is a post graduate in Chemistry. He also obtained a Master’s in Business Administration from Prasanthi Nilayam, and is currently the Founder and Investment Advisor of Honest Advisory, a financial consultancy firm based in Bangalore, South India. May 9, 2010 – Special Talks in the Divine Presence Swami arrived to the chants of the Vedas in the evening at 4:45 p.m. and after taking a full round of the Sai Kulwant Hall arrived on the stage. He sat for a few minutes as the chants went on and at about 5:05 p.m., He asked for the speakers' podium and mike to be brought. Then He called for Mr. Ajit Popat and told him to address the gathering. May 6, 2010 – Easwaramma Day Celebrations in Prasanthi Nilayam As announced, Swami reached the Samadhi premises at 10 a.m. An elaborate procession of the naadaswaram, bhajans and Vedam lead His car through the crowded street. Getting down from the car, Swami moved into the Samadhi building. He pulled the legs and patted the cheeks of a kid seated right near the doorway and then moved to the eastern side of the Samadhi. He blessed garlands to be placed on the tomb and also to deck the newly installed idols. 2009 Sri Sathya Sai Media Foundation