ROLE OF BRAHMAN IN ACTION

Saurabh – Dubai

Hari Aum!

Q) Power to act has come from the Creator, and the Creator is none other than Supreme Brahman; But the Supreme is beyond action! What is the role of Brahman in action and how should one act?

Manish ji’s reply:

[As understood by me]

Manish ji presented a profound idea through the straightforward analogy of a white screen in a cinema theater. In this metaphor, the white screen represents Brahman, the Ultimate Reality, and it is due to this screen that we can perceive the projections of a film. The screen serves as a substratum upon which the movie can be displayed and appreciated. Similarly, Brahman acts as the foundation upon which all experiences occur, whether we are consciously aware of them or not. Just as a movie requires a screen to be projected and enjoyed, the world we perceive through our senses is fundamentally rooted in Brahman, as there exists nothing apart from it. Each individual, through one’s own willpower and imagination, constructs a personal world that aligns with his desires, while others do the same according to their own volition. Ultimately, both the collective and our individual experiences are mere projections upon Brahman, and it is essential to recognize that these projections, though vivid and engaging, are not the Ultimate Truth.

The concept of transcending human limitations revolves around realizing our True Nature. The essence of the Shastras is to guide us, as intelligent beings, to move beyond the confines of our self-perception. Often, we are not what we believe ourselves to be; instead, we are capable of much more than our limited understanding suggests. Effort in the right direction, is the key to unlocking the mystery of being what we are. One must transcend and understand – it is not me who is working, even though I think it is my efforts.

The power to act is a profound gift. This raises an essential question: How should we exercise this power responsibly? Consider the example of a knife. In my hands, it can be a tool of nourishment, enabling me to prepare healthy meals by cutting vegetables. However, the same knife can be harmful if wielded with malicious intent. The outcome of our actions is determined by our choices and intentions. Engaging with the world through the lens of wisdom, allows us to navigate our actions with greater clarity. Our actions can be likened to a dynamo; the more we engage in the world, the more energy we generate towards it, which can lead to an endless cycle of desires. If we do not consciously intervene to halt this cycle, it will continue to expand, giving rise to countless new desires that can distract us from our true purpose. Ultimately, after experiencing the inevitable suffering that often accompanies the relentless pursuit of material possessions, many individuals come to a profound realization: chasing after external objects is ultimately futile! True victory lies not in the accumulation of wealth or status but in mastering the mind and its incessant cravings. When our actions are driven by ego, we frequently seek something in return. Here it becomes important to introspect on our underlying motivations. In contrast, true action should arise from a selfless attitude, performed for its own sake rather than for the rewards it may yield. By cultivating this selflessness, we can align our actions with a higher purpose, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and harmonious existence.

I’m truly grateful to Manish ji for his insightful sessions and for consistently keeping us on track. Your guidance and caring attitude make a real difference, Thank You Very Much!

Aum Tat Sat!