What is Discipline?

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What is Discipline?

 

The root of the word " Discipline " comes from the Latin

word for instruction. Spiritual disciplines are means

of self-instruction that we engage in for the growth

of our higher awareness. The successful practice of

self-transformation requires a high degree of inner

discipline. We must learn and practice the rules of

the spiritual path to achieve success.

 

Discipline is inherent in both nature and humanity.

The planets conform to their orbits, and each creature

acts according to its character. Physical laws of

discipline govern such things as the crystalline

structure of rocks. Everything from the largest to the

smallest in creation adheres to its own law. It is

only in the working of the laws of nature that each

being finds its proper place in the cosmos. For

humanity, the highest disciplines are the

transpersonal. Such disciplines enables us to realize

our identity with God.

 

What are the necessary disciplines for us to practice?

We must obey the rules of law in society and the rule

of the heart in our personal conduct. Through

education and experience, we learn the laws of the

land. Through self-inquiry, we understand the rule of

spirit. Unthinking habit is not discipline. Discipline

is a reasoned course of practice for the production of

specific results. Sri sathya Sai baba recommends

certain disciplines for our spiritual unfoldment.

These disciplines include:-

 

1 Do not harm others (Ahimsa)

 

2 Speak the truth and practice what you teach (Sathya)

 

3 Study the teachings of the scriptures and the saints

 

4 Serve others without seeking reward

 

5 Practice devotion to God

 

6 Practice detachment from objects of desire

 

7 Do your duty to yourself, family, community and

nation

 

8 Live within the bounds of morality

 

9 Meditate on the unity of creation and the

omnipresence of God

 

These are some of the practices by which we shed our

ignorance and enter the light of self-knowledge