Guest guest Posted July 9, 2009 Report Share Posted July 9, 2009 Hari OM. That mind plays an important point in the liberation of man must have been clear to those who have read the previous postings on this topic. If we can change the quality of thoughts by following the path of Devotion(Bhakti Yoga) and if the quantity of thoughts is controlled by pursuing the path of Dedicated Action (Karma Yoga), the direction of thoughts can be changed by the pursuit of Knowledge (Gyana Yoga), which alone can remove our ignorance of our true nature. Knowledge can be gained only by a man of pure mind. When actions are performed with the understanding that the Lord is the Governor of all actions (Karmadhyaksha) and the giver of all results (Karmaphaladhata) the mind becomes purified since the vasanas are exhausted and such a mind becomes an aid to liberate man. The attitude of surrender to the Lord whilst performing actions (Isvaraarpana Buddhi) and cheerful acceptance of results gained (Prasad Bhava) are the touchstones of Karmayoga referred to above. The mind also gets absorbed by restraint of vital airs(Pranas). This is a means of checking the mind like the net used for ensanring the birds. So says Bhagavan Ramana Maharishi in his famous Upadesa Saram. By restraining the pranas, the mind goes into a state of absorbtion and this is considered as a means of controlling the mind. When the mind is quietened , our breathing becomes normal. Therefore, Pranayama helps in controlling the mind even though the result may not be long lasting, since thoughts gurgle out embracing their pet objects, finding better and more pleasureable fields of preoccupation and consequently getting into more problems The three paths ,viz., the path of Devotion, path of dedicated action and pursuit of knowledge are not mutually exclusive. To each one of them ,the other two are complimentary. Unless the quantity and quality of thoughts are modified ,the direction of thought can not be changed. All the three paths are to be practised in synthesis. Each one of us have to discover for oneself our main path and also realise that the other two can not be totally eliminated. Once success is attained in controlling the mind by following the paths as above, success in meditation will be assured. And it is through meditation alone Moksha or Self-realization can be attained. (to be continued) G.Balasubramanian Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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