Austerity

Austerity does not mean physical torture, far from it. Mortification of the
flesh only a devilish nature can enjoy. God the Merciful does not demand
our physical torture. He wants us to have the soulful light of wisdom. Nothing
more and nothing less.<br>
<br>
Austerity means a dedicated body, a pure mind, a loving heart and an awakened
soul.<br>
<br>
The outer austerity grows on the fertile soil of simplicity, sincerity and
purity. The inner austerity grows on the fecund soil of serenity, tranquility
and equanimity.<br>
<br>
Sattvic austerity wishes no reward. Gain, honour and fame, rajasic austerity
expects and demands. Self-immolation or the destruction of others, tamasic
austerity wants and cherishes.<br>
<br>
A seeker of the transcendental Truth and sex-forces can never run abreast.
The seeker walking along the path of self-discovery and God-discovery must
know what true celibacy is.<br>
<br>
To quote Krishnaprem: ?A neurotic celibacy with the so-called unconscious
mind full of thwarted sex, issuing in a welter of more or less disguised
fantasy, is the very worst condition to be in for one who seeks the inner
life. Such a condition may, like extreme bodily weakness, give rise to strange
experiences and visions, but it will quite effectively prevent any real treading
of the Path. Sex will be transcended; it cannot be suppressed… with impunity.
?<br>
<br>
The chapter ends most soulfully with the Brahman. Brahman is divinely designated
by the three soul-stirring words: AUM TAT SAT.<br>
<br>
AUM is the mystical symbol supreme. AUM is the real name of God. In the cosmic
manifestation is AUM. Beyond the manifestation, farthest beyond is AUM.<br>
<br>
TAT means ?That,? the Nameless Eternal. Above all attributes, majestic ?That?
stands.<br>
<br>
SAT means Reality, the Truth Infinite.<br>
<br>
We have to chant AUM and then begin to perform our life?s divine duties.<br>
<br>
We have to chant TAT and then offer to humanity all our achievements, energising
and fulfilling.<br>
<br>
We have to chant SAT and then offer to God what we inwardly and outwardly
are, our very existence.<br>
<br>
Sri Chinmoy

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