Divine Discourse delivered by Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba on 14th January 2004 at Sai Kulwanth Hall

[Guest guest]

CHARACTER IS THE GOAL OF EDUCATION

(Text of the Divine Discourse delivered by Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba on 14th

January 2004 at Sai Kulwanth Hall)

Students, Boys and Girls!The present Vice Chancellor, the former Vice

Chancellor, the Secretary of the Central Trust and two other students have made

excellent speeches in beautiful vocabulary. In this vast world, wherever you

see, you find most wonderful and joyful events that awaken your inner being and

fill your heart with immense bliss. Our students also have developed great

skill, intelligence and expertise in the fields of sports, games and music and

demonstrated their talents giving joy to one and all. Whatever be the activity

they undertake, they do it to please Swami and not for temporary happiness.

Right from the time of birth, all activities of man are centred round the

process of learning and acquiring wisdom. It is absolutely necessary to teach

the spirit of idealism to our students so that they fill their hearts with love

and

give happiness to one and all. Today, there are a number of educational

institutions all over the world, but, nobody seems to have understood what

education really means. Students fill their heads with mere bookish knowledge,

write examinations, secure pass marks and claim that they are educated.

In spite of his education and intelligence, a foolish man will not know his true

Self and a mean-minded person will not give up his evil qualities.

(Telugu Poem)

Modern education leads only to argumentation, not to total wisdom. What is the

use of acquiring education which cannot lead you to immortality? Acquire the

knowledge that will make you immortal.

(Telugu Poem)

Vidya means Jnana (wisdom). Jnana does not mean worldly intelligence. True

education is that which develops inner vision and makes you experience

everlasting bliss. In what way are the students benefited by the present

educational system? They are merely acquiring degrees and earning the

appreciation of the authorities, but they do not understand the real

significance of education. Modern students are unable to realise the true

spirit behind their participating in sports and cultural events. In all events

of sports and games, you have a winner and also a loser. People are interested

only in the outcome of the events and not in enjoying the spirit of sports. The

aim of sports and games is not to produce a decisive result but to inculcate the

spirit of sportsmanship in the participants. Life is a game, play it. Life is a

dream, realise it. Life is love, enjoy it. It is only he who understands the

import of these statements and realises them in

his daily life is a true student. Modern system of education, instead of

developing the power of discrimination in students, is making them

narrow-minded. It neither bestows true wisdom nor does it help them to become

broad-minded. The present-day education has become meaningless. The textbooks

that are prescribed for students do not contain the essence of true education.

I wonder why the government promotes such meaningless textbooks! May be, even

the government is unaware of the realities. It appears as though somebody at

some low level is taking these decisions without consulting the higher

authorities. It is bringing a bad name to the government, but nobody seems to

be concerned about it. Such an unhealthy trend is on the rise. Nobody is making

efforts to understand the sacredness associated with the ancient system of

education. Students are interested only in bookish knowledge, not in the

essence of education. Only their textual knowledge is tested, but not practical

knowledge. Students think that degrees are meant to earn a livelihood. Education

is for life, not for a living. But neither the students nor the parents realise

this truth. Parents are happy if their children score high marks in their

examinations. They are not bothered about the heap of bad remarks their

children get. If only they care to look into the remarks, they will truly

understand the type of education that their children are receiving. Due to the

advancement in modern education, the study of Vedas and Sastras has declined.

In this situation, how can the present education confer true wisdom on you?

Students!You should acquire such education which will be beneficial to the

society and the world at large. What is the present state of society? In what

way can we make it ideal? How should one work for the advancement of the

society? Nobody seems to think on these lines. Even the present system of

education does not lay

emphasis on service to society. If someone talks about reforms in the system of

education, the students just brush it aside. They think that textual knowledge

is the be-all and end-all of education. The elders should take up the

responsibility to give proper education to students. Students should uphold the

honour of the society. We should follow the teachings of our ancient sages and

seers who have given us the true meaning of education. It is a sign of

foolishness to become egoistic by merely acquiring a few degrees. You should

understand the needs of society and utilise your education for its progress.

People say they are serving the society, but without really understanding what

the requirements of the society are. Such service is not Samaja Seva (social

service), but Samadhi Seva, meaning a lifeless, mechanical activity. Society

will progress only when the system of education is set right. As the craze for

Western education has increased, the study of Vedic texts is being

neglected. Parents should teach their children what is good and what is bad

right from their childhood. They should not be satisfied merely by securing

admission in a college and acquiring a degree by their children. They should

ensure that their children utilise their education to serve the nation. The

government may not be able to do much in this regard; it is the responsibility

of the parents to guide their children on proper lines. They should encourage

the children to work for the progress of the nation. But nowadays, parents do

not have such broad-mindedness. Even teachers are not interested in the welfare

of the nation. They feel that their responsibility ends with imparting bookish

knowledge to students. They do not even enquire whether the information

contained in the textbooks is beneficial to society or not. They do not take up

the matter with the government. Even if they do take it up, the government is

not responsive. They are changing educational institutions into

factories which produce degree holders. Students alone are not to be blamed for

this state of affairs. Parents, teachers and the government are equally

responsible for this dismal state of affairs. It is not enough if students

secure high ranks in the class and earn a good name. They should work for the

progress of the society and the nation and thus bring a good name to parents.

Parents should monitor the progress of their children from time to time,

inculcate virtues in them and mould them into responsible citizens. They should

not rest satisfied if their children get good marks. They should also observe

what type of books they read at home. Some students read meaningless novels.

But the parents do not bother to correct them. On the other hand, they say,

“What is wrong in reading novels? It is enough if they are happy.” In this

manner, they spoil their own children. They do not care to observe how their

children behave in their absence. There is no point in merely educating the

children without correcting their behaviour. Parents should emulate the ideals

of our forefathers who brought up their children in the most ideal

way.Embodiments of Love!The modern system of education needs reforms. Parents

today, take pride that their children are studying in English medium schools

and are able to recite English poems. They fail to understand what type of

impact and influence this modern education has on their children. The tiny tots

in kindergarten are taught nursery rhymes like “Ba … Ba … Black Sheep”. Because

of such education, the children are ultimately becoming black sheep themselves.

I am really pained and disgusted watching the present-day system of education

which is totally spoiling the lives of students. That is why I have established

educational institutions spending crores of rupees to mould the character of

students. I am providing even textbooks free of cost to the students. In the

present-day

world, the situation is so bad that even for admission to a primary school one

has to register well in advance paying thousands of rupees as donation. Parents

are happy if their wards get admission in what they consider good schools, but

they do not bother about the benefit that would accrue on account of such an

educational system. The children do not appreciate the privations the parents

have to undergo for educating them. Parents take loans and even forgo proper

food and sleep to educate their children. Ultimately, the children do not

benefit out of this system of education. They are unable to understand what is

good and what is bad for them. Today when the quality of education has become

so ‘cheap’; how can such education make one a ‘chief’? Neither the parents nor

the teachers nor the students are able to understand how the society and the

nation are benefited by the present system of education. Therefore, all of them

should join hands and work unitedly to bring about a

complete transformation in the society. At present students’ agitation is on the

increase. However, it is not their fault. They are in themselves very

good-natured. Fault lies with the teachers, elders and the government. It is a

decided factor that the present system of education is not designed to mould

the character of the students. There are many good students, but parents,

teachers and textbooks do not guide them properly. It is high time that the

parents opened their eyes and seen the real state of affairs. They should see

to it that their children come up in their life by acquiring proper education.

They should encourage their children to pursue such type of education which

will lead them to immortality. Of course, secular education is also necessary.

But, secular education should be harmonised with spiritual education to mould

the character of the students and make them better citizens of the

country.Students!Do not feel

proud that you are pursuing higher education. Along with higher education, you

should cultivate noble qualities. Education bereft of virtues is useless. The

end of education is character. Today many students read useless, even immoral

fiction novels. The authorities should ensure that such books are not sold in

the market. Students should read only such books which can improve their

character. They should participate in sports and games in the true spirit. This

advice would equally apply to the girl students as well. They question, “When

boys ride motor bikes, why can’t we do the same?” In this way they argue and

waste their time. Nobody says that girls should not ride motor bikes. But one

should act according to the time and circumstances. The number of fatal

accidents of young people involved in two wheelers is on the increase. Parents

make many sacrifices to bring up their children. But, if the precious lives of

students are lost in motor cycle accidents, I can understand their

agony.

Today, girls want to compete with boys in every field. They also aspire for name

and fame. Their argument is, “In what way are we inferior to boys? Why can’t we

acquire the same type of education as boys?” However, each one should acquire

such type of education that is appropriate and suitable to them. It is

essential for women to look after their families well and shape the character

of their children in an ideal manner. Along with inculcating virtues in

children, they should also be given proper education. The present-day education

is leading students in the wrong direction. Parents are to be partly blamed for

this. They want their children to acquire high qualifications and get married

to another highly qualified person. Some parents while trying to fix up

marriage alliance ask, “My daughter has completed her post graduation. She is

good looking. What about your son? Has he completed his post graduation? Is he

handsome?” In fact, beauty is related to character, not to the physical

appearance. Beauty of character is what one should aspire for. Is it always

possible to get a post graduate bridegroom for a post graduate bride? The

present-day education is leading to unhealthy competition and conflicts. I do

not say that girls should not pursue higher education. If I am against women’s

education, why should I establish women’s colleges? I have established various

educational institutions with the sole purpose of inculcating virtues in

students. I am providing education free of cost. There are no examination fees

even. My only aim is that students should acquire proper education, become

ideal citizens and give happiness to their parents.

Students!Do not misunderstand My words. I am telling you all this for your own

welfare and progress. You should acquire such education which will bring a good

name to you and uphold the reputation of your family. Do not become egoistic and

take to wrong ways in the name of freedom. I quite often caution the boys not to

look here and there while walking on the road. Some boys, while speeding on

their motor bikes, keep looking at girls who are passing by. In the process

their attention is diverted and they end up in accidents. If your character is

good, you will always be protected. You should always keep your senses under

control. You should always have a check on your vision, listening and speech.

Buddha undertook various spiritual practices with a view to have mastery over

his senses.

Why are the eyes given to you?Is it to look here and there? No. The eyes are

meant to see the beautiful form of the Lord. Why are the ears given to you? Is

it to listen to vain gossip? No. The ears are meant to hear the glories of the

Lord.

(Telugu Poem)

The ears are given for hearing good words and putting them into practice and

thereby lead a virtuous life. Having realised that God has given the sense

organs for the purpose of leading a virtuous life, Buddha discarded all

ritualised spiritual practices and put his senses to sacred use. He assured

himself that what he had to achieve in life was virtues, and not sensual

pleasures. He realised that conscience was his true Guru and made efforts to

control his sense organs like eyes and tongue. If these two sense organs are

controlled, all the other organs would automatically come under control. Having

thus set a goal for himself in life, Buddha entered the wide world, after

renouncing his wife and only child. I am not however advising you to leave your

wife and children and go to the forest like Buddha. You look after them well and

fulfil your responsibilities towards them. Teach your children noble qualities

and bring them up in life.

Lead a life of virtue. This is what Buddha taught. If you cultivate Samyak

Drishti (right vision) like the Buddha, the whole world will be under your

control. Do not pay heed to the wrong advice of others. Foster noble qualities.

If you can control your senses, that itself amounts to realising the essence of

the epic, Bhagavata. The study of the epic Bhagavata is meant to transform you

into a man of virtue. Hence, control your senses and become a master of the

world. This is what you have to strive for, today. Explain to your parents also

about your priorities in life. Tell them,”Mother! You expect me to go for a job

which offers a fat salary. But, high salaries are not as important as a

virtuous life. If we give preference to money instead of a noble life, our life

itself will be ruined.” When you keep your senses under control, you will become

a person of noble qualities. You will also gain the strength of character.

Hanuman, the illustrious servant of Lord Rama is an

example of such noble qualities. He was extolled as ‘Santhudu’, ‘Gunavantudu’

and ‘Balavantudu’ (calm and serene, one of virtues, one of mighty strength). He

became a great Guru because of his noble qualities. We should emulate his noble

qualities.

Dear Students! You are like pure gold. You are people of noble qualities. You

are precious. But, some of you are misguided by bad elements. Even if others

try to mislead you, do not deviate from your chosen path. Stand firm. Only then

will you acquire name and fame. This is My advice to the students. In today’s

education you are taught skills which will enable you to rise up in your

career, but, nobody teaches moral education. Morality is the most important

aspect of education. Money comes and goes, morality comes and grows. Therefore,

cultivate morality. That will earn you respect from society.

God is your sole refuge wherever you may be, be it in a forest or in the sky or

in a city or in a village or on the top of a mountain or in the middle of a

deep sea.

(Telugu Poem)

Cultivate noble qualities. I shall give you everything. Nay, I shall give Myself

to those who cultivate noble qualities and also to those who teach them. In

fact, I am living only for their sake. I do not seek anything in return from

them. Lead a life of character and nobility. Bring good name to your parents,

your institution and to Swami.Dear Students!You are all men of noble qualities,

but you are influenced by the contemporary society to a certain extent.

Therefore, do not succumb to distracting influences. First and foremost, make

proper use of your senses. Any elders you come across, revere them as your

father and mother. Earn good name for yourself by your thoughts, words and

deeds.Join good company, speak good words, cultivate Samyak Drishti and pursue

good education that will build your character – this is what I expect from you,

students. In fact, this is what

your parents also wish for. No father or mother will expect their children to be

spoiled. But, they are unable to advise the children properly and put them in

order, out of some sort of inhibition. Of course, I have no such qualms.

Therefore, I am advising you, with all the emphasis at My command, to see good,

be good and do good. Cultivate noble qualities. Thyaga (sacrifice) is the

noblest of all qualities, not Bhoga (indulgence). In fact, Bhoga will lead you

to Roga (disease). The Veda has proclaimed Na Karmana Na Prajaya Dhanena

Thyagenaike Amrutatthwamanasu (immortality is not attained through action,

progeny or wealth; it is attained only by sacrifice). Hence, Bangaru! (My dear

golden students) cultivate such noble qualities as Thyaga. I am prepared to

sacrifice everything for you. But, you must also be in a position to receive My

grace. I am yours and you are Mine. That should be the relationship between us.

Try to understand Swami’s love. All this is meant to advise you to

tread the right path. Do not go against the wishes of your parents. If, by any

chance, you have to differ from their views, explain to them lovingly your

viewpoint. They will also feel happy that you have respected their feelings.

The Veda has declared, Matru Devo Bhava, Pitru Devo Bhava, Acharya Devo Bhava,

Atithi Devo Bhava (revere your mother, father, preceptor and guest as God).

Speak sweetly and softly to your parents. Convince them, if necessary. I am

prepared to sacrifice anything for the sake of such students. Several students

join our educational institutions. Some of them may not be in a position to pay

fees. Therefore, we have decided that all education in Sathya Sai institutions

should be totally free and no fees be collected from the students. You should

be free from all anxieties and enjoy peace. By conforming to good behaviour

only can peace be obtained. Several students today wish to enjoy good things in

life, but are following wrong methods. They wish to partake of

sugar, but consume bitter pills. They say one thing and do another. That is why it is said

Manasyekam Vachasyekam Karmanyekam Mahatmanam Manasyanyath Vachasyanyath

Karmanyanyath Duratmanam (those whose thoughts, words and deeds are in perfect

harmony are noble ones; those who lack harmony of these are wicked)

I like such students whose thoughts, words and deeds are in perfect accord. I am

prepared to sacrifice anything for them, nay, I will give away Myself to such

people.Dear Students! Knowingly or unknowingly you might have committed

mistakes in the past. But, at least in future, cultivate good qualities and try

to keep your parents as well as Swami always happy. (Swami called students from

Primary School, Higher Secondary School and also from the three campuses and

gave away glittering silver trophies in appreciation of their performance in

the Sports and Cultural Meet.)

Source: http://www.sssct.org/Discourses/2004/sankranti_04.htm

 

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