Quest the Vedic Answer

Answer: It is a very Good Quest that does God exists! Whatever things we see or feel with our senses, there must exist some reasons for their existence because "an effect presupposes a cause" (Vaisheshika Darshana: 4.1.3). "Where there is no cause, there can be no effect" (Vaisheshika: 1.2.2). There are three eternal entities --God, matter and an infinite number of infinitesimal souls.

[The eternal thing is that which exists and is uncaused --Vaisheshika: 4.4.1]

"Whatever we see must have a creator, viz. earth, sun, moon, stars &c. nothing can be created by itself. Thus the universe is not only vast and far extending; it is designed and most purposefully ordained. Nothing in this universe is without meaning. It is amazingly a wonderland, well-knit and well-woven, everything in it in its own place, every bit of it throbbing with activity, nothing stationary, every bit of it endowed with supreme activity.

Ponder over a small Quest. Is it all a chance that we have such a Universe? What is the ultimate source of the energy that we find in this Universe? Who has set all these planets, stars, asteroids, and galaxies in a well-designed beautiful patter on the carpet of space, and set of them in motion? Can you imagine a time when this Universe did not exist? Billions and billions of years ago, the Universe existed and shall continue to exist for that period of time. When was it born and what dimensions it is who can say for sure?

Beyond this Universe, both in space and time, is the Mighty and Supreme Supervisor, who looks to all the details, big or small, and who has been taking care of this vastness since an infinite time.

Admire this Universe and The Hands behind it, this Universe of ours, most beautiful, perfect in design and order and most purposeful, at each stage well co-ordinated, stretching beyond the border of time and space.

Has all this come by accident? Of course, where we fail to comprehend, or we shirk to give an Answer, we take cover under such terms: chance, accident, nature, and so on. Why should we feel shy in accepting a simple Answer: there is a Supreme Potter, who has designed all this out of the eternal clay existing simultaneously with Him. The Supreme Potter has Supreme intelligence; He is Omnipresent and is one without a second, the great co-ordinator, and a Master Planner. An acceptance of this simple Answer is known as "Theism". Man can answer the Quests posed above in so many ways, but the simplest Answer is what we have given. A Personal God, His Supreme Benevolence." [“Man and his religion” by Swami Satya Prakash Saraswati]

Quest # 139: What is re-birth? Why to believe in re-birth? Please give evidence!

Answer: Re-birth is said for the soul to acquire an another physical body after he has left an existing materialistic body. Whosoever is born must die. This is a common experience. But this does not mean the death of the soul, that is, of the self. The soul escapes from the body, and this is known as death. When the soul enters the fertilized ovum, it is the birth. Death is the door between two lives, the present one and the next one. Birth is also a door between the previous life and the present one. Birth after death is called "Re-birth". Death is as great a mystery as birth. Nobody appears to have been born of his will. Nobody sincerely wishes to die either. It has been one of the craves of man to conquer old age and death. Our bodies succumb to diseases. Medical science has been there to save us from disease but the inevitable always happens, and whether we welcome it or not, one day we find ourselves in the clutches of death, and then there is no escape.

Where do we come from and finally where do we go to? These are two eternal Quests which wise men have tried to answer in their own way. We are the posers of this Quest. This Quest is related to our own self, and yet we are ignorant. We do not know our own destiny. And this is one of the greatest surprises. We are the subject, as well as the object of this inquiry.

[The self is neither born nor does it die. It is not made of material parameters; it is not subject to biological or chemical changes. The soul is an infinitesimal unity. This has not to be confused with the Supreme Self, which is the Infinite Unity. The infinite and infinitesimal can co-exist without being illogical.]

Our present is a resultant of our entire past, and again with our accomplishments in the present, we shall be moving to the next life.

When a man is born, he is born with two heredities of which one is biological, which passes from father to son, from one generation to the other, The other is the intrinsic heredity, which the soul carries from its one life to the other. The two heredities work simultaneously in the present harmony without any conflict.

Our life is an everlasting life. One who is born must die, and one who dies is born again. There is no room for frustration. We have been marching on and on in our journey from an eternal time and shall go on like this. What we could not achieve in this life may be achieved in the next one. This journey has some purpose. The intrinsic infinitesimally of the soul in so many dimensions impose upon it certain limitations, and within those limitations, under the Supreme care of our Benevolent Lord, we get opportunities after opportunities for manifestation of what is best in us and whatever would be the most blissful for us. Life has continuity, and has a purpose as well.

When an individual is born, the soul comes with a subtle body, with supragenetic code (The residential tendencies i.e. 'Sanskaras' of entire past). On this code (Sanskaras) is engraved the entire resultant in the subtlest language of its entire past. Thus everybody is born with a history, not of his parental race but of his own.

"Our life is a complex function of so many parameters that the future remains unpredictive. All that we know is that what we are today, we are as a result of our efforts, and we are the builders of our future. And since we have to build our future, we need caution. This caution is provided by religion." [Man and his religion]

"If a man becomes capable of knowing God before leaving his physical body, then he attains salvation, and then after enjoying it for the fixed period, (Pranta-kaal) takes rebirth (acquiring this physical body) in the beginning of the creation in some world.” (Kathopanishada: chapter 6, aphorism 4)

"Those sages whose all doubts have been dispelled by thorough knowledge of the Vedic principles and those whose intellect has been cleared by practice of Yoga (of renunciation), they all come again (i.e. are reborn) after enjoying 'Moksha' for a 'Paranta' period of time (i.e., the time taken in the creation and destruction of the universe 36000 times)." (Mundaka Upanishad: Chapter 3 section 2, aphorism 6)

"In my hundreds of birth I, previous to my attaining knowledge of God, was being held bound in, and protected by, different cages of bodies, but now I, like a hawk breaking asunder and freed from the snare, have, by virtue of the force of the knowledge of Supreme Spirit, broken asunder the snare of bodies and emancipated". (Aitereya Upanishad: Chapter 2, aphorism 5)

"Taking innumerable births in this universe" [Shwetashatar Upanishad: Chapter 4, aphorism 3]

Also there are many proofs that show that there are innumerable births until the soul attains emancipation.

"A dreary forest becomes a great city and all men become friendly and the whole world is filled near-lying precious gems to him, who has a store of previously done good deeds." (Neeti- Shatak: # 103)

"He makes a good son who pleases his father by his good character. She is a good wife who desires only for the welfare of her husband. He is a good friend who remains equal in distress as well as in happiness. Those obtain these three in this world only that have done pious deeds (in their previous birth). [N.S. # 68]

Quest # 140: "Temple is God’s home". To which extent is it true?

Answer: God is omnipresent i.e. He is all-pervading. There is no place in the universe where there is no existence of God; weather it is mind or temple. Yes! It is true that idols made by man, decorate temples, where as God Himself resides in the temple of mind.

Temple is mansion (hall), where idols of imaginary God’s (i.e. creation of artists), are placed. These idols are kept well dressed (with donor devotees' choice), decorated with jewelry, garlands of Zari (glittering artificial material, and some made of real silver and plated with gold) and other decorative items, to make the idols-gods / goddesses look attractive. Devotees offer money and even costly items, such as diamonds, gems, pearls &c. that will not admire the pictures (idols), when they see glittering, beautiful, and decorated idols of their choice. Ordinary people come in the line of other people and their belief is converted into blind-belief. They forget the real God who is existing within hearts and believe what is visible in front of eyes. In this way they believe that God lives in idol made of stone.

In common language "Temple" is the place where God exists. [In Hindi temple is called 'Man+dar = Mandar i.e. whose residence is the mind, or one who lives in mind. God lives in mind, so mind is the place where God resides.] God is visualised (realised) in pure mind by the self. The soul also lives in this body (in heart) and God is Omnipresent, hence only place where soul can meet God, is nowhere else but heart itself. Both (the soul and God) exist in the body; hence this body is the real temple of God. God is everywhere but we (the soul) exist only in this body so it is proper place to meet Him.

Man makes Temples (of stone and bricks) where insensate inert idols are decorated, but God had made live temples (Human body) where He Himself lives in every house, in every society, and in every city and in every nation. Man is so ignorant that he being conscious worships the dead inert matter, insensate object that lacks faculties like cognition, etc. This is an insult and fraud to God! This is disobedience to God! There cannot be a bigger sin than to worship an idol in place of God! These simpleteous people do not improve their life but fall in the deep khud instead!

Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram, Yogeshwara Shri Krishna Lord Shiva, &c., were our ancestors with pure great souls. It is our duty to follow their teachings, but making their imaginary images and then worship them (idols) is extreme injustice and a great sin. One must follow their characters, not (to worship) their idols. The idols are a dead inert matter. It does not eat or drink hence to offer any thing, it shows his illiteracy and ignorance. Being the most civilized and best creature, when some men behave like this, what title should be given to them? Because of these kinds of non-human-acts, God has commanded man in the Holy Veda "Manur Bhava" i.e. "Be a man".

Temple* are the symbols of "temples of mind". One should learn from these temples. For example: temples are kept clean, and to maintain its sanctity, prayers are performed every morning and evening. These are illuminated with lights. Special care is taken for the building, its holiness is maintained (i.e. nothing illegal or impure acts are permitted within the compound of the building), special programs are organized on festive occasions, prasadam is offered to the devotees who come to perform prayers etc., to keep the environment of temple-place pure fragrance are restored with rituals like 'Agnihotra'.('Agarbattis', Dhoops, Lobans, essences, sprays etc. the alternative of 'Agnihotra'). Now one should keep in mind the meaning of all those above-said points to understand the real meaning of temples that are the symbol of "Mind-temple".

[Temple ---here we symbolize the term "temple" for all Mandir, Masjid, Gurudwara, Girija, churches, any place of worship.]

(1) One should keep his mind (residence of God) clean, i.e. he should dispel all impurities like sex, anger, greediness, envy, jealousy, hatred, selfishness etc.from his mind.

(2) Body is the medium and agency to perform all religious duties and rituals. Hence the body must be kept healthy and fit by proper and balanced healthy diet, regular exercise, proper medication in case of illness and regular pious life. (Non-vegetarian foods like meat and fish etc., which are food for animals not humans, should not be taken.)

(3) It is the utmost duty of all men to worship God every morning and evening.

(4) One must illuminate his mind by lights of real knowledge of the Vedas, meeting learned people, teachers (Gurus), study of the religious books, to visualise God in his own mind.

(5) One should occupy his mind with the fragrance of love and good characters. In this way there will be no enmity in the society and that feelings towards all living being will be that of one family.

(6) It is advisable to donate whatever is in your reach and to work for the benefit of others. One should promote every possible means of help to those who really seek education. Education is the best donation.

(7) One should organize religious programs such as "Yajna", "Pravachanas" i.e. preaching of spiritual thoughts etc. All should be invited to these kinds of programmes.

(8) One should bear in mind that God is Omnipresent. He is always within us. God knows everything what one thinks talks or does (any act) so one should always be careful about his actions.

(9) God gives this body in trust, so it is his deposit. One should always keep it healthy and fit. Also the soul does not reside in diseased body.

(10) One should know that in this materialistic body there exists a subtle body, to make it clean and healthy. One must be very careful about his deeds that deposited in it as 'Sanskaaras' (tendencies). According to these ‘Sanskaaras’ the soul gets new birth.

(11) God is Love and Love is God! Offerings symbolize love. Hence without love and trust nothing is achieved. “Shraddhaa” is the most important thing in worship. To accept truth is called “Shraddhaa”.

(12) Proper knowledge, Truth, Love and Good deeds are the four pillars of the temple without that “Bhakti” (worship) is not acceptable.

GOD is the Holiest Super Soul hence it is the duty of mankind to keep his residence (the mind-temple) clean and pure. If our minds are pure, our society will be pure; hence environment will be pure and worthy living.

Dear readers! Our mind (where the soul lives) is the real residence of God. We should realise own-selves. If we do not realise our self, how can we realise Him? There is no need to look outside, to find Him anywhere outside. Meditate inside and you'll find Him where you are. Pujaries (who perform Pooja in the temples) always make you wakeful whilst ringing bells that "It is the time to wake, O simpleteous people! God is within you! While performing rituals, showing the idols with (Jyot) in his hand, he makes you understand that the idols are made of stone and these are dead-inert, insensate objects, so don’t waste your time here in front of these idols, but then also people with blind faith do not understand what they are doing!

God’s Real image is inside our hearts. All living creatures are His living image. To make them happy is to make God happy. So let us try to learn to love all living being, behave with humanity, this is the real worship of God. To acquire true knowledge through the study of Vedas by some true teacher (Vedic Guru), Service to mankind, mercy towards all animals, Practice of eight steps the Yoga (i.e. meditation and realisation of God within mind), then only one visualise (realise) most Adorable, Benevolent God.

"Mind is the temple of God."

Quest # 141: What is "Vaastu Shastra"? What is its use? What is the effect of Vaastu Shastra in human life?

Answer: "Vastu Shastra" is a science of building construction which is co-related with the science of geography according to place, time, environment. It also co-related with mathematics, drawings etc. It is commonly known as architectural art. One who knows the art of constructing a building is called a civil engineer that knows "Vastu Shastra" better than any one else. Interior decorator knows how to utilize place in the house better hence he cannot be known as Vaastu Shastra specialist. Where the thing to be kept in the home it is the work of a housewife according to the size and condition of the house, but it is a wrong concept that if one keep any particular thing in some particular place, he will be prosperous in his life! "The science of building" or "Vastu Shastra" also related with calculation and physical dimensions as well as religion and cosmic energy i.e. the natural laws.

[To be prosperous in life depends upon many things including one's actions and his past tendencies (i.e. Sanskaras). Hence Vastu Shastra is nothing to do with the future or fate of a person or persons.

The knowledge of 'Yajna' and building of 'Yajnashala' i.e. the place where 'Yajna' is performed exists in the Vedas. This proves that the science of 'Vastu Shastra' is derived from the Vedas. GOD is called "Vaastu-Sheshwara" because He has set all these planets; stars, asteroids and galaxies in a well designed beautiful pattern on the carpet of space, and set all of them in motion. He only knows the conditions and sustenance of these heavenly bodies.

It should be kept in mind that these planets &c. can have their effect on the gross body of living being, but they cannot and never change or alter one’s destiny. Our destiny is fixed according to our own previous actions (Sanskaaras), i.e. one has to face consequences of his actions, and even God cannot change or alter his actions. (God is Just and Omniscient. His laws of nature are eternal and unchangeable). Fruits of one's actions are under God’s control. So effect of 'Vaastu Shastra' can be felt on the living pattern of a man, but not on his the fruits of his past actions. Man is the creator of his destiny and his destiny depends on his past and present actions.

Quest # 142: What is "Jyotish Shastra" (Astrology)? Is there any relation of human's destiny in astrology?

Answer: The science of heavenly bodies i.e. illuminated bodies like the sun, the moon, stars, galaxies etc., and their movement and positions in space, is called 'Jyotish Vidya' or the science of 'Astrology'. [The study of the positions and aspects of the heavenly bodies in the belief that they have an influence on the course of human affairs.]

[Astrology: The geologic study of celestial bodies.] Jyotish Vidya also deal with astrometereology i.e. the study of the influence, or supposed influence, of the stars, planets etc. on climate and weather. In the universe all heavenly bodies [Except God] rotate in their axis and around their so-called 'Sun'.

All heavenly bodies (sun, moon etc.) move or rotate because of influence of God.

Important informations: ---{we are told that the average distance between the earth and the sun is 93 million miles. Light, the lightest known messenger, travels at a speed of 186,000 miles a second. So in a year it covers a distance of about 6 million miles. If it could travel from one side of the galaxy to the other, the journey would take it about 100 thousand years. There are over 100,000 million stars in our galaxy and then there are about 100 million galaxies in the universe. This means that there are some ten trillion stars in all. On a clear dark night, you can see, with your eyes alone, as far as, 9,000,000,000,000,000,000 (nine billion billion) miles all the way to the Andromeda galaxy. Is it not a wonder that the One who is responsible for the existence of this vast universe has given to each of us a tiny little organ called 'eye' to see beyond such long distances? Coldest temperature of the sun in the darkest sunspots is estimated to be 4000 degree centigrade, and the temperature in the flare of the sun is 20,000 degree centigrade, and that of the corona, or the outer atmosphere which extends for millions of miles beyond the Sun is 1,000,000 degree centigrade, It is very difficult for any of us to have an idea of the temperature in the core of the Sun.

Jyotish Shastra or astrology: --the laws of the nature being eternal, there can never be any changes in the movements of these illuminated heavenly bodies, that is why the astrologer can predict solar and lunar eclipse well before (even centuries before) their movements take place. Indian astrologers (knower of the 'Jyotish-Vidya') have their knowledge since the creation of the universe as this science of astrology exists in the Holly Vedas. They know the exact timing and duration of these 'Lunar or solar eclipse', and they can also caution public for their (eclipse') effect on living being or in the atmosphere at that period of time. Hence humans can be well prepared to face any calamity during eclipse.

The actions never rest without giving their fruits to the doer. Hence movements of these heavenly bodies can never change. And no astrologer can change or lessen the power of consequences of fruits of one's actions. One has to face the results of his actions, bad or good that depends upon his quality and quantity of his actions. Wear whatever precious stones, gems, diamonds or any thing on your finger-rings or in chains, perform any type of rituals, go to any temple of your choice in any part of the world, but no one can get rid of his fruits of his deeds done with thoughts, talks and actions.

One can be aware of the pains not-yet-come and can be avoided. "Heyam Dukhamanaagatam" (Yogadarshana: II, 16) i.e. Pain that is not-yet-come is avoidable. By the use of the words 'not yet come' that past and the present have been taken out of the preview. One can change his attitude of life by feeling the Omnipresence of God "Ishwarapranidhanad vaa" (Yogadarshana: I, 23), by doing God deeds in life, by meditation of God by practice of Yoga.

Quest # 143: Through the science of astrology, can an astrologer predict for the future of any human being?

Answer: The geologic study of celestial bodies is called "Astrology". How can an astrologer predict the future of other person? No one can predict for the future of any human being.

Man is a free agent* so it is not possible for any one to predict or decide for his future. Decisions can be taken but no one knows what will happen tomorrow. Laws of nature are eternal but man is a free agent by nature. According to his knowledge, will and capability a man can do whatever he want. What will he do (if he has not decided yet) no one can know. [* We have given the attributions &c., of free agent in previous Q/A session.)

The soul is an infinitesimal unity hence possesses limited knowledge. One possesses the tendencies to forget the past and does not know of the present because of tension for the future, then how can an astrologer, who is also human being, predict anyone's future? Man is of fickle (inconstant) tendency, he even does not even know his own future, how can he definitely say something about anyone's future? No one can know the future of any free agent i.e. human being.

"The part of astrology which comprises Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry etc., and which goes by the name of Astronomy is true; but the other part that treats of the influence of stars on human being and their actions and goes by the name of Astrology is all false.” [Light Of truth: Chapter # 2]

Quest # 144: Can one predict the future of man by just looking at lines of his/her palms?

Answer: There are always changes in the things made of 'Prakriti ', because God’s powers of ‘creation and destruction’ always exist in the universe. There is creation in some place and destruction in some other place. There is birth somewhere and there is death elsewhere. There is always change in the universe; this is an eternal law of nature.

The bodies of all animate beings are made of five gross elements. Newborn baby grows, becomes a teenager, young and old. There is a change in our body, every moment without our knowledge. Every part, every organ of our body changes, every moment, but we do not know the changes at that time. After some months or years, we of course see changes in our body. The skin is the uppermost part of our body. There are seven layers of these skin which grows automatically / naturally when it burns or when it damages due to some accident or wound.

You all of must have noticed that lines on the palms of our hands keeps changing. The reason for this is that when old skin dies (element dies), new skin comes out in that place. The lines are the result of bending, closing etc. of our palms. At birth child is born with closed palms, so some main lines are already exist there on the palms of the newborn babies. These are natural lines made for the comfort of closing and bending our palms. There is no connections of these lines on the future or destiny of ones life.

{Indian astrologer have studied these lines since long time and concluded some results after seeing several people's palm-lines. It can be possible that some lines show the same behaviors of some people, but it is not 100% correct to say that these lines can predict the future of any person. There are 60%--40% possibilities or you can say probabilities that lines can tell correct attributes, nature and characters of some of the persons.}

It would not be a satisfactory result, if some astrologer, mathematician or some saint or a holly person tell your future. Nowadays it is a fashion to show your hands or see your horoscope in newspapers to know your future. Really speaking all this is nothing but a waste of time. Whatever will go to happen tomorrow, no one can prevent the laws of nature. Palm-lines cannot be 100% accurate to inform or predict anyone's future; on the contrary it is headache for those who have blind faith on these useless things.

"It is futile to try to predict the future and give an account of the past, We know that it is the weakness of human nature to know both the past and the future. There are statistical methods of calculating out the probabilities of mass events on the basis of certain reliable data (just as of the toss of a coin, whether head or tail, 1:1, i.e., 50% chances of both). But no mathematics would enable you to predict a particular event in the above instance of the toss of a coin. An individual event can never be predicted with exactness." [Man and his religion]

The science of astrology is 100% right but to tell about the fruits of one's future are absurd and fraud. This is symbol of ignorance of people who do not want to work. God’s theory of cause and action is eternal i.e. " An effect presupposes cause"(Vaisheshika Darshana: 4.1.3.) and "Where there is no cause, there can be no effect"(Vaisheshika Darshana: 1.2.2.).

Man is always inquisitive to know his future or destiny in his life. By showing his palms to some palmists-cum-astrologers (whose business is to satisfy his clients and take money according to their positions), they get some relief to know that their future is very good. These people are actually atheists or nihilists who have no faith in God’s justice. To make tomorrow better one has to make his present good by doing virtuous actions, because tomorrow rests upon today. Actions done in past give their fruits in the present or in the future and actions done in the present will give results in the form of illuminated or dark future. If our present is good, do not worry about tomorrow. Rest leaves to God.

Believe in God. Trust in God. Worship His Omnipresent, Omniscient, Omnipotent and formless form. Act according to the teachings of the Vedas to get the best results of your actions. One, who adores God as his Father, mothers everything. When a child is in the lap of his father or mother, he feels secure and free of all pains and miseries and realises true bliss.

Quest # 145: Is there any gain to wear ornaments and jewelry like stones (Jewels, diamonds etc.). What are the benefits if one puts precious stones, according to his horoscope (Janama-Patrika), in his/her finger ring?

Answer: IT is correct that any type of ornamental jewelry uplifts the beauty of the wearer. It brightens up the face. Gold and silver effect the body.

[Note: The ashes (Bhasma) of gold, silver, pearl &c. are used in the Ayurveda medicines because metals have their own effects on the body]

Kings of ancient times wear ornaments and jewelry of diamonds, pearls &c., they used to drink in silvery glass and eat in golden plates. Pearl and silver has a cold effect on the body, they give coolness in body. Gold supplies energy to the body. All metals have their own deferent properties that are good for health. If there is any deficiency of any particular metal, it can be rectifies by taking the drugs made from metals' ashes. Doctors know better the condition of patient and what should be given to them accordingly. Iron is found in our blood, hence doctors always describe iron tablets for those anemic patients who are suffering from the deficiency of iron in their body.

There is no benefit in wearing precious stones according to ones horoscopic signs. There is no reality in improving ones financial capacity &c. And there is no any effect on the destiny or on future of these ornaments studded with pearl, diamonds, gems &c. One has to face the consequences of his/her actions. There is no excuse in any condition. Man alone is thus responsible for his good and bad actions. Our life is a complex function of so many parameters that the future remains unpredictive or can be changed by wearing stones &c. Our actions are the seeds of the fruits that we get by the way of pleasure and pain. This law is eternal and no one can change or alter it by any mean. Whatever fruits are hidden in one's destiny (according to his past actions), must come and has to be experienced by the doer alone.

If by just wearing those precious stones, the fate or destiny of a person changes then God’s laws of action and reaction (Karma-Phal) will have no meanings at all! Is it possible that 'Karma-Phal' theory made by the Supreme Soul is wrong? Is it possible that our actions go waste without giving the fruits to the doer? Then why to do good deeds? Then why to think about the future? Readers must decide!

Quest # 146: You mean that all astrological sciences (the science of stars) are false?

Answer: For this particular Quest we refer to "Light Of Truth" (Chapter 2) in which "Mahrishi Dayanand Saraswati" has explained your Question.

"No, that part of it which comprises Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry etc., and which goes by the name of Astronomy is true; but the other part that treats of the influence of stars on human being and their actions and goes by the name of Astrology is all false.

"Horoscope: It should be named not ‘horoscope’, but deathknell of happiness; because the birth of a child gladdens every heart in the family, but this happiness lasts only so long as the horoscope is not cast, and the aspect of the planets is not read out to the parents."

"These are nothing but downright frauds and quackery. Should any one say: "If I were to give a charmed bangle or locket to any person, my God or saint would ward off all evils from him trough the power of the charm or incantations". To such a person the following Quests should be put: "Can you by your charms evade death, or the laws of God, or the consequences of your deeds? Many a child dies in spate of your charms and incantations; and, even your own children die; why can't you save them? Will you be able to save yourself from death? These Quests, that rascal and his fraternity can never answer, and they soon find the game with not worth the candle.”

Therefore, it is behoves all to do away with all kinds of false and superstitious practices and do all in their power to promote, in return for their services, the welfare of those pious, learned men, who are devoted to their country and are altruistic teachers of humanity, teaching and preaching to all without the least amount of hypocrisy.

All alchemists, magicians, sorcerers, wizards, spiritists, etc., are cheat and all their practices should be looked upon as nothing but downright fraud. Young people should be well counseled against all these frauds, in their very childhood, so that they may not suffer through being duped by any unprincipled person.

Quest # 147: What is "Yajyopaveet" (Sacred Thread)? And what are the benefits in wearing the same?

Answer: 'Yajyopaveeta' or "Upanayan" or “Janeu” is one of the sixteen 'Vedic Sanskaras’ or "Sacraments" i.e. religious rituals according to teachings of the Vedas. All the Sanskaaras play very important role in Vedic Dharma. These Sanskaaras are essential for man's physical, mental and spiritual developments.

When a child go to (Gurukulas) school to obtain education from the teacher, the first ritual done by his teacher is called "Yajyopaveeta Sanskar" i.e. commonly known as "Thread ceremony" which means that now child has the right of education and performing religious rituals like 'Yajna'.

Yajyopaveeta is also known as 'Janeu', Mangala-Sutra and 'Upa-Nayana'. In English it is called 'The sacred-thread'. This sacred thread is essential for all men and women to be worn. 'Mangala Sutra' means "the sacred thread", because wearing it there is always good for him in the life. To understand the importance of this tiny sacred thread, just pick up one "Yajyopaveeta.

In this sacred thread which is white in color--there are three threads in it and in each thread, there exist three tiny threads (fibers)--it is 98 fingers long (because an average human body is 98 fingers long) with five knots that make the thread round. Now you have seen that there are all nine threads in the 'Yajyopaveeta' with five knots and white in color. White is the symbol of purity and being made of cotton thread, it has no side effects.

(1) Many people are allergenic to nylon, polyester, and man made chemical fibers or made from animals' hairs, woolen &c., but cotton is natural hence hygienic and also scientifically proved to be the best for the human body.

(2) Human body is 98 fingers long in length, this also proves that the sacred thread which is also 98 fingers long, has effects the full body.

(3) Five knots also indicate to perform five essential duties that is "worshipping of the five living Gods" (Refer previous Q/A sessions). There is one more secret of these five knots. There are five enemies of man i.e. sex, anger, greed, affection (dillution) and egotism. When the sacred thread is worn the student takes oath to get rid of all these enemies by controlling his senses with intellect. These five enemies are the main hurdles (knots) that are to be conquered by man in his life. Whenever the person, who has worn the sacred thread, sees it while bathing or at any time during the day or night, he remembers his oath.

(4) There are nine tiny threads (fibers) in the ‘Yajyopaveeta’ that indicate the nine gates of human body. Nine gates (Dwaaras) are two eyes, two ears, two nostrils, mouth and two genitals. One has to have one-one watchmen on these gates so that there should be no misuse of these openings of the body. The work of eyes is to see either Good or bad? When one sees good his Sanskaaras (tendencies) will be good otherwise his tendencies will ruin his present life and life to come in future. One should have control by Yogic exercises. Real pleasure of life is not outside. One has to go inside to meet his long time eternal happiness i.e. the bliss. Refer the Atharvaveda 10.2.31 for "Eight Chakras" and "Nine Dwaaras". One should use them (nine gates of the body) properly to get success in life to reach the goal i.e. salvation.

(5) Three threads of the Yajyopaveeta (main threads) have very important meanings:

On every human being there are three kinds of debts viz. 'Maatri-Pitri-Rina, 'Rishi-Rina and 'Deva-Rina. These debts (obligation) are on every human being.

Mother and father are supposed to be the first teachers of man. They are the creators of our physical body. One should be grateful to them because of their selflessness service towards their children. One can never pay off his debt of their parents. One has to pay off his/her debt by giving his/her children education and by bringing them up as their parents have done for them.

The second debt is 'Rishi-Rina’ i.e. grateful towards one's teachers or Gurus who give a second life to their students by giving him true knowledge (Manu 2. 148, 149, 150). The Guru is man's true guide who leads him to the right path. The Guru develops good Sanskaaras in his pupils' life by teaching and religious rituals. Hence to pay off their (Gurus') debts by obeying his commandments and by giving educational help to needy students.

The third debt is 'Deva-Rina' i.e. debt of living and insensate deities. The living deities are --mother, father, teacher (Guru), altruistic teacher of humanity (Atithi) and the husband for the wife & the wife for the husband. It is the worship of these that leads one to God. The insensate deities are earth, water, fire, air and ether. Humans always pollute them to keep him fit and these are the five deities because of which we get clothing, food and shelter.

To pay off their (insensate objects) debt one must perform 'Yajna' daily. Yajna is also good for man to live in pollution -free environment. Lord of all deities (living and insensate) is the Lord of the universe---GOD. He is called 'Mahaadeva' because He is the lord of lords. One ought to worship Him daily in the morning and evening. God is the prime source of all true knowledge.

"Yajyopaveet's three threads also teaches man that he ought to be very cautious about his thoughts, words and actions. There should be oneness in thought, word and action.

Three sacred threads also indicate that this world is tri-attributed viz. 'Sattva', 'Rajas' and 'Tamas' and because of them everything is entangled. Man's body is also the mean of salvation hence to be free from the clutches of birth and death, one must try to get rid of worldly attachment by renouncing it whilst experiencing it. "Ten Tyakten Bhunjithaa".

Three sacred threads are also the symbol of three eternal entities i.e. God, the Prakriti (the matter) and an infinite number of infinitesimal souls. Without true knowledge of all these three eternal entities, no one can attain the 'Moksha' i.e. emancipation or salvation.

Nine fibers of the 'Yajyopaveeta' have also one more important secret that the imagination of the nine deities whose nature, attributes and characteristics ought to be adopted by man. These nine deities are:

(1) Omkara: God’s knowledge and light of Oneness.

(2) Agni: Light, illumination and remover of sin.

(3) Ananata: Infinite stability and resolution.

(4) Chandrama: Sweetness, coolness and loveliness.

(5) Pitrigana: Love and blessings.

(6) Prajpati: Maintenance of the masses, love and happiness.

(7) Vayu: Holiness, vigorousness, movability and sustenance.

(8) Surya: Light, removal of darkness and purifier of impurities.

(9) Sarva-Deva: Divine and simple living.

The sacred thread gives a man an important preaching for adoption of all the above-said attributes to make him great illuminated and a happy man in his life.

'Yajyopaveeta', thus is very sacrosanct thread full of knowledge and science. If understood and worn, this white sacred thread will change the life of man into happiness, and for those who are ignorant and do not know it's value, it is just a thread.

The Yajyopaveeta Mantra:

“OM Yajyopaveetam Paramam Pavitram

Prajapateryatsahajam Purastat,

Aayushyamagrahyam Pratimuncha Shubhram

Yajyopaveetam Balamastu Tejah”. (1)

· “Yajyopaveetamasi Yajyasya Twa

Yajyopaveetenopanahyaami”. (2)

Yajyopaveeta is to be retentive for mankind. It is to be worm (kept) on the left side shoulder round to the right side waist under right arm. It goes from (touching) heart and ends at waist line, that means one has accepted the sacred thread on the his/her shoulder. He/she will not forget his/her oath to retain it to perform all his duties to attain the ultimate goal of the life i.e. emancipation. There is one more important secret of Yajyopaveeta that starts from the one's shoulder goes touching heart ends at waist, this indicate all senses which, hence one must have his control over his/her senses. This Yajyopaveeta is to be worn up to death or one can remove it in two conditions. Firstly, when it becomes dirty, and secondly when one gets renunciation (Sanyaas). Hence there is ritual to accept the sacred thread from childhood to 'Sanyaas Aashram' i.e. fourth or last quarter of one's life. A true Sanyasi always preaches the religion, which he practices in his own pious life.

It is to be kept in mind that one should only take one 'Yajyopaveeta' that is always white in color. It has been seen a different custom that at some special functions or at some religious ceremonies, non-Vedic-mythological and demonological Purohits tie some colored threads (red, yellow, black &c.) to his Yajmaanas' wrists in the start of rituals. This is very wrong custom and procedure that should be removed from the fashionable society. Yajyopaveeta is not a fashion-thread, it is really a sacred thread. One should have respect for the religion of humanity. It is advisable to those so-called Purohits or Pundits should not play with the feelings of ignorant but religious people. Yajyopaveeta is always white color and made of cotton thread, consists of nine tiny threads, which make three main threads, 98 fingers long with five ties to give it a round shape. Nowadays people wear golden chain instead of 'Yajyopaveeta'. This can be treated as fashion, not Upanayan or Yajyopaveeta! Those purohits or pundits, who make his 'Yajmaanas' to wear golden chain in place of 'Yajyopaveeta'* are doing anti-Vedic rituals.

[*Some of the castes in India mostly parent of bridegroom demand or accept a golden chain from groom's parents in place of sacred thread.]

This is a sinful act. These kind of wicked-customs should be banned. God gives them intellect to accept truth and renounce all that is untrue!

Quest # 148: If one does not wear the sacred thread? Then what will happen?

Answer: The great sage Manu says: 'Shudras' should not wear the sacred thread. 'Shudra' is one who is impure, ignorant, illiterate, do not want to study nor learns when someone teaches him, who behaves like a fool and does low class deeds.

Now readers can decide themselves, If one does not wear the sacred thread? Then what will happen? One who know the importance of the sacred thread i.e. Yajyopaveeta, and then still does not wear it shows that he/she is ashamed of wearing it. What will you say to such person?

The Rigveda 10.57.2 commands: " It is a desire for common people to adopt (to wear) the sacred thread that is popular in the learned society. We should obtain the 'Yajyopaveeta' in proper way i.e. by Vedic ritual."

It is clear that one, who refuses to wear the sacred thread, is unauthorized (i.e. he has no right) to perform religious rituals and remains away from true knowledge of the Vedas. What can be worse fate for him than this? One who knows the importance, who knows the commandments of the Holy Vedas, still make some excuses not to wear ‘Yajyopaveeta’, then who will be bigger 'Shudra' than that person? Who can be that 'Asura'? Being learned person and behave like an illiterate person, it is really a quality of an illiterate and ignorant person. 'Yajyopaveeta' is the symbol of human-custom.

Quest # 149: What is meant by "Sanskaar" or "Sacrament" or Religious Ritual? How they effect on man?

Answer: It is very difficult to find an exact equivalent for the word “Sanskaar” in English. The closest one can get in English is the catholic Sacrament. It can also not be rendered by the word ‘Ritual’. For, ritual is a term with limitation of meaning. It cannot capture the inherited aspect of the “Sanskaaras”. It can also not be recognised as anything other than symbolic, especially since the rituals are not performed the right way in these times. People do not want to do them properly. The priests, most often, do not know exactly how to perform them. Even if they know how to perform them they do not know the meaning of what they chant.

The word “Sanskaaras” is generally used in the sense of “Ritual purification” or simply purification’s. But there is a deeper meaning to the word. Since purification is a process where by one goes through stages of impurity to purify, the word should be looked upon with some broader perspectives. Hindus believe, and modern science, especially genetics proves, that human body inherits a certain combinations or permutation of genes. The word “Sanskaaras” thus refers to the value systems abstracted by structure and permutations of genes one inherits. Once activated at different stages of life by means of rituals, these “Sanskaaras” get activated, reinforced and direct life pattern and future direction of growth or decay of a human being.

By which the body, mind and soul become pure and illuminated, is called "Sanskaar" or "Sacrament". Mahrishi Dayanand Saraswati has defined the term 'Sanskaar' in the last portion of his evergreen book "Light Of Truth" in "A statement of my beliefs" as "Sanskar is that which contributes to the physical, mental and spiritual improvement of man from Conception to Cremation. There are sixteen Sanskaaras altogether. I hold that their due and proper observance is obligatory on all. Nothing should be done for the departed after the remains have been cremated."

In the Charak Sahinta, Mahrishi Charak has written that " which means "Depositing good attributes in place of (by removing) man's existing impurities, is called 'Sanskaar' (Sacraments).

Mahrishi Dayanand Saraswati while describing the importance of sacraments in preface of his another book named "Sanskaar-Vidhi" that " By good body and soul because of these sacraments, one can achieves the practice of righteousness, acquisition of wealth, realization of legitimate desires and attainment of salvation, and his children become very deserving. Therefore, it is very noble for all men that they should perform the sacraments.

“One should perform the sacraments with reverence (belief). A child brings with him all his good and bad Sanskaaras of previous infinite births at birth. Mother, father and teacher (Guru) make child's tendencies good with the sacraments, hence they are called the best laboratories of human-makings”. These are eloquent of the "Shatpath Brahman." Because of these Sanskaras i.e. sacraments, man can attain salvation hence one should perform the sacraments.

The root-indication of the sacraments exists in the Vedas and other scriptures written by sages and seers describe them in detail. There are descriptions of these sacraments in literatures of Grihasutra like--Aashvaalaayan Griha-sutra, Aapastamb and Kaushitaki &c.

In the Aashvaalaayan Griha-Sutra there are descriptions of 12 sacraments, whereas in manu-Smriti there are descriptions of 14 sacraments. Mahrishi Dayanand Saraswati has described 16 sacraments in his book named "Sanskaar-Vidhi" [Procedure of the sacrament].

The sixteen sacraments (Sanskaaras) with proofs are: --

(1) Sacrament of 'Impregnation’ (Garbhadhan Sanskar)

[Atharvaveda: 6.81.1,2,3;

6.17.1,2,3,4; 5.25. Mantras from to 13]

(2) Punsavanam [Atharvaveda: 3.23. Mantras from 1 to 6; 6.11.1; 1.11. Mantras from 1

to 6] [Yajurveda: 17.87 and 38.5]

(3) Simaantonnayan: [Rigveda: 3.8.4][Atharvaveda: 11.

. 7.3; 11. (5). 7.6; 11.(5).7.26]

(4) Jaat-karm:

(5) Naam-karan: (Naming ceremony) [Yajurveda: 7.29]

(6) Nish-kraman: [Atharvaveda: 8.2.14 and 15]

(7) Anna-Praashan: [Yajurveda: 11.83] [Atharvaveda:

8.2.18 and 19]

(8) Chudaa-karm: [Atharvaveda: 6.68.1,2,3]

(9) Karna-vedh: (Peering of ears) [Atharvaveda: 6.141.2] [Yajurveda: 25.21; 29.40]

(10) Upanayan: (Sacred Thread ceremony) [Atharvaveda: 11.5.7,3; 6.141.2; 6.133.2 to 5; 11.7.4;

6.134.1 To 3] [Yajurveda: 2/33,32/13]

(11) Beginning of the study of the Vedas (Vedarambh);

(12) Samaavartan: [Atharvaveda: 11.5.7.3; 11.5.7.6;

11.5.7.26] [Rigveda: 3.8.4]

(13) Marriage ceremony (Vivah-Sanskaar) [Rigveda: 10.183.1,2,3; 10.27.12; 3.55.16]

[Yajurveda 3.60] [Atharvaveda: 11.5. (7). 18; 14.1.17

and 18; 14.1.50 to 57; 14.2.52

And 73; 2.30.1 and 2; 2.36.1 to 8; 2.30.5]

(14) Ceremony of Vaanaprastha (Vanaprasthashram) [Rigveda: 10.146. 1 to 6] [Yajurveda: 20.24] [Atharvaveda: 9.5.1; 19.41.1]

(15) Sacrament of anchorite (Sanyaasashram) [Rigveda: 9.113. 1 to 11] [Atharvaveda: 19.43.1 to 8]

(16) Last rites of the dead (Antyeshti) [Yajurveda: 40.15]

[Atharvaveda: 18.2.56; 18.3.71]

Note: One can see that above said 122 mantras are just a proof that shows the importance of the sacraments in man's life. They effect if performed with love and sincerity (Shraddha).

Quest # 150: How the impressions (Sanskaras) of the last birth come in this present life?

Answer: The impressions of one's actions (good or bad) are registered the 'Chitta' (mind). These impressions make deep grooves that compel one to react accordingly. These residential tendencies (Sanskaras) also become the cause of new actions that helps and inspires a man to act next actions. These sacraments (which are registered in the 'Chitta' i.e. inner-mind) go along with the soul after death, until the soul has not attained salvation. The subtle body remains with the soul unto salvation. After finishing the period of emancipation the soul gets the new body with the same obstructive media i.e. 'Antah-Karan’; hence the soul gets his last left 'Chitta'. This process which is beginning-less and end-less and is under God's management. Re-birth is due to these residential tendencies.

“Karma” is the storage of our actions, recorded with exactitude in a special memory. These recordings are like time bombs that will explode in the future. The sight of an object, the thinking of a thought, the performance of an act, even though very transitory, leave a complex trace in the Cosmic Memory (Akasha), which lasts beyond time, and leaves also an imprint in the subconscious mind. This subconscious imprint is called “Sanskaar” (dynamic impulse). The character of a man, his moral or mental status, his "talents", his "likes" and "dislikes", all are determined by his Sanskara, which are the product of his Karma (past actions). The Sanskaras transmigrate from incarnation to incarnation, never being lost. They act like seeds that will develop according to a specific pattern, which characterize each of them and which is closely related to the charge of the action that produced them.

"Our present is a resultant of our entire past, and again with our accomplishments in the present, we shall be moving on to the next life.

When a man is born, he is born with two heredities, one that is biological, which passes from father to son, from one generation to the other. The other is the intrinsic heredity, which the soul carries from one life to the other. The two heredities works simultaneously in perfect harmony without any conflict. The intrinsic heredity is carried by a similar supragenetic code, made of non-matter, and existing as a non-material envelope round the soul. This non-material is known as the subtle body of the soul, just as the genes and genetic codes constitute the gross body of the same. Through this supragenetic code in the subtle body are preserved those supracharacteristics, which the soul carries from one body to the next, one after the other. As one passes from one life to other they remain dormant, or become active, may be altered, or replaced as the case may be. The soul carries as if the final resultant of these supracharacteristics from one stage to the other."

"When one dies, the biological envelop is left over here, and the soul within the supragenetic envelop (i.e. with its subtle body) passes on to its next life carrying its intrinsic heredity. The life continues on like this.” [Man and his religion"]

Note: This intrinsic heredity is nothing but our residential tendencies i.e. our 'Sanskaras'.

Quest # 151: What is "Yoga"? How many accessories are there in Yoga?

Answer: The word Yoga comes from a Sanskrit root which means, "to go into trance, to meditate." Others however derive it from a root, which means to join: and Yoke in English is said to be the same word as Yoga. Both roots are feasible---in the case of the root to join, to come nearer so that there remain no space in between the two, being two separate entities but look like one, Yoga would mean the science that teaches the method of joining the human soul with God. Yoga is a technique by which the soul communions with God. “Yogashchittavritinirodhah” "(Yoga Darshana: 1.2) means Yoga is the restraint of the mental modifications.

Actually the correct word in Hindi is "Yoga" (Yog) but when written in English it is usually pronounced as "Yoga". [There is no harm in pronouncing “Yog” or “Yoga” but the meaning of the word should not be changed]

Commonly the word ‘Yoga’ is used for the exercises and posture of the body (Aasana), but that is one part/step or the accessory of the Yoga. There are eight steps of Yoga popularly known as "Ashtanga Yoga" i.e. "Octapartite Yoga". Yoga is the one and only straight way to attain the bliss of God. No other way reaches there. The eight steps of the Yoga are --Restraint (Yama), Observance (Niyama), Posture (Aasana), Regulation of breath (Pranaayaama), Abstraction (Pratyaahaar), Concentration (Dhaaranaa), Meditation (Dhyaana) and Trance (Samaadhi). “YamaniyamasanapranayampratyaharadharanadhyanasamadhayoAshtavangani”[Yoga Darshana: 2.29]

These eight steps of Yoga consists of five external accessories, as if, compared with the last three internal accessories. These internal steps viz. Concentration or Dhaaranaa, Meditation or Dhyaana and Trance or realisation of God i.e. Samaadhi are collectively called "Samyama" i.e. “Trayamekatra Samyama” [Yoga: 3.4]

(1) There are five "Yamas" i.e. 'Restraints' namely ---Abstinence from injury or harmlessness (Ahimsa); Strict devotion to veracity (Satya); Abstinence from theft i.e. honesty in word, deed and thought (Asteya); Continence i.e. abstinence from sexual indulgence (Brahmacharya) and Abstinence from avariciousness i.e. abstinence from the headlong pursuit of worldly things and freedom from the pride of one's possessions such as wealth and power (Aparigraha). [Yoga Darshana: 2.30]

(2) The Observances (Niyama) are also of five kinds ---Physical and mental cleanliness (Shouch); Contentment--which does not mean contentedness with physical interia, but which does mean that you do your utmost to attain your object, but are not carried away by the resulting profit or loss, joy or sorrow (Santosh); Purificatory action i.e. austerity i.e. devotion to duty regardless of consequences ('Tapa' which burns up impurities); Study of the Vedas that is acquisition and discrimination of true knowledge (Swadhyaaya) and the making of the Lord the motive of all action i.e. everything left to God in belief and trust or resignation to the Will of God through extreme devotion to Him (Ishwara Pranidhaan). [Yoga Darshana: 2.32]

(3) Posture (Aasana): --Posture is steadily easy. [Yoga Darshana: 2.46]

(4) Regulation of breath (Pranaayaama) --Pranayamas is the stoppage of the inspiratory and expiratory movements, which follow, when that has-been-secured. [Yoga: 2.49]

(5) Abstraction (Pratyaahaar) --By which the senses do not-come-into-contact with their objects and follow, as-it-were the nature of the mind. [Yoga Darshana: 2.54]

(6) Concentration (Dhaaranaa) --Concentration is the steadfastness of the mind. [Yoga: 3.1]

(7) Meditation (Dhyaana) --The continuation there of the mental-effort (to understand) is meditation. [Yoga Darshana: 3.2]

(8) Trance i.e. realisation of God (Samaadhi) --The same when shining with the light of the object alone, and devoid, as-it-were, of itself, is trance (or contemplation, Samaadhi). [Yoga Darshana: 3.3].

For the student of Yoga, firstly he has to attain the position of having control over his all desires, so that he is able to restrain of mental modifications. This is possible by practice and desirelessness (Yoga Darshana: 1.12). And he acquires in him the faculty of essential cognition i.e. 'Ritambhara' (Yoga Darshana: 1.48). This 'Ritambhara' give birth to the residual potencies, which burn all other residual potencies (Yoga Darshana: 1.50). When this last residual potency is also vanishes by practice of 'Ishwara-Pranidhan' i.e. leave all to God, the student if Yoga attains the stage of restraining of mental modifications (Yoga Darshana: 1.2). Now the goal is reached when all being suppressed which results in the seedless trance i.e. 'Samaadhi' (Yoga Darshana: 1.51).

When all the impurities are washed away, there is nothing in between God and the soul. The body is the best medium to reach God. In the end even this physical body does not remain and the soul attains emancipation. This is the best psychic-power of the Yoga.

Quest # 152: What is the gain from ‘Pranayamas’? How many kinds of “Pranayamas” are there i.e. the processes of restraining breath?

Answer: Yoga Darshana: Sadhanpada # 28 says: Pranayamas or control of the breath: The practice of 'Pranayamas' gradually burns off all impurities and exalts the soul. The light of knowledge in the soul goes on continually increasing till the soul is emancipated."

Great sage Manu writes in 'Manusmriti (6.71): "Just as a goldsmith, by blowing strongly against a piece of impure gold, removes its impurities by oxidation, so does 'Pranayamas' burns off all impurities of the mind and senses."

There are four kinds of 'Pranayamas', such as (1) Bahya-Vishaya; (2) Abhyaantara; (3) Stambha Vritti and (4) Bahyabhyaantar-Aakshepi.

(1) Bahya-Vishaya: --It is the process desired above in which the breath is held out as long as possible.

(2) Abhyaantara: --In which the breath is held in as long as possible.

(3) Stambha Vritti: --In which the breathing is suddenly stopped at any stage of respiration.

(4) Bahyabhyaantar-Aakshepi: --In which the ordinary course of breathing is reversed, expiration is forcibly begun when inspiration is going on, and vice versa. By thus reversing the course of respiration, both expiration and respiration, and consequently the mind and senses come under the direct control of the Will.

Quest # 153: What is the difference between "Anger and Manyu"?

Answer: To say bad words with loose temper and with loss of senses are called anger. To express annoyances and reversed behavior, in which revenge is hidden, are signs of anger. To talk in extremely loud voice with trembling lips, hands and legs shivering, eyes becoming red, loose talks (whatever comes in mouth), no respect of elders etc. these are the signs of anger.

In anger man even forgets him self and do not knows what he says. His blood pressure rises hence he looses his balance. Everything is spoiled with anger and in the end he realises that he has done a mistake. He then wants to regret and grieves. He repents but words once spelt out can never be back. Their impressions always remain in the mind and the remarks of injury done in the heart never go. There are many disadvantages of anger. Hence elders say that "Talk only after you think twice".

'Manyu' is like anger but in this there exist no feelings of revenge. In 'Manyu' one is in full senses and his anger is not real (false) and only for the benefit of others. For example when parents do anger on their children (this is not an anger), they actually want to teach them, this is called 'Manyu'. Children do understand from this 'Manyu' and they do not feel bad. Parents always love their children from deep inside their hearts.

There is big difference between anger and Manyu. In anger the words sting others, on the other hand, in Manyu there is a teaching hidden in those words. For example "Are you blind? Can’t you see? These words spring anger. And the same words if you say like ----"O man, just see and walk! In this there is your benefit!” This is Manyu. The words are same but tone is deferent.

But some time, the situation becomes so difficult that one cannot resist him and looses control over his temper. One should not create such a situation. If such situations arise then one should handle it according to righteousness i.e. 'Dharma'. What is right is always right and what is wrong always remains wrong.

"Madhumati stha madhumatim vaachu mude yam" (Atharvaveda: 16.2.2)

Means: O loveable people! Always be with sweet nature, I'll talk sweetly. (Happiness and peace remain only with sweet tongue.)

"Talk is created with the inspiration of the soul. Misuse of the talk always results in unhappiness and quarrels, whereas with the proper use of it (sweet talk) one always acquires happiness and peace." (Atharva Veda: 19.9.3)

Quest # 154: How can one have control over his anger? And what are the disadvantages of anger in human's life?

Answer: A very Quest! Man creates more disadvantages because of anger than any other thing. Some of the disadvantages or losses are as under:

(1) Anger effects very badly on the physical, mental and economical position of the person.

(2) Man himself is burnt up in the fire of anger hence anger ruins life.

(3) Because of anger, any thing going to be settled, mixed up and ends in total loss.

(4) Mental diseases can be created such as acidity, blood-pressure, hyper-tension, heart-attack and even a man can become totally mad, because of anger.

(5) Physical weakness, trembling, migraine, and palpitation, ulcer, brain-hemorrhage and weak eyes-sight are the results of anger.

(6) Anger mostly influences on the brain. Loss of memory, loss of power of judgement and uneasiness starts from this disease. (Anger is a disease indeed.)

(7) Regradience and repentance after anger is common phenomenon and because of this inferiority complex is created which results in hatred and suicide in the end.

(8) Anger decontrols the mind, tongue and body that result in stammering, shaking and tiredness.

(9) Nobody wants to talk to the person who becomes angry very soon or who is an angry-person by nature. People always hate and do not like these people.

(10) An angry man not only becomes unhappy in this world but he also makes his next birth miserable because of the impressions of his angers. Thus he is gone from this and even that world too.

You know! "One wrong step may give a great fall." "Before you begin, consider well; and when you have considered, act." "Even in the moment of action there is room for consideration." From today itself we should take a vow not to get angry in any circumstances and to renounce anger for our benefit. Pleasure and peace will follow.

All acts ought to be performed in conformity to 'Dharma' i.e. after consideration of right and wrong. One's talks should be sweet and gracefully. One's behavior should be of that kind, what he wishes that from others. One must have control over his mind, tongue and body (i.e. our senses). Once in a week one must take the vow not to talk the full day, or not to talk at least two hours a day. Making ourselves busy should expel all evil thoughts. Make friends. Sex Desire, anger, greed, affection, egoism, envy, back talks must be expelled from life. Daily prayer early morning and evening should be performed. Glorification-worship-communion and service of mankind are the most important acts that should be done. Study of the Vedic literature daily is must for all without any lapse. By all these means anger will automatically run away. What remains is nothing but happiness and peace.

It is an eternal law of nature that whatever is given away remains with the donor. Whatever pleasure and peace is given away to others will remain with the donor. Now decide what you want to donate 'Anger or love'?

(11) Science says that there are about 20,00,00,00,00,000 cells in our brain that controls the whole body. With the fire of anger these cell damage or burn, hence the mind looses its balance. On one side we demand for pure intellect or a sharp brain (in the 'Gayatri mantra') and on the other hand we convert this intellect into damaged brain cells by anger! This is not intelligence!

(12) Anger creates hate and repulsion, which makes distances and differences for all. Love is such an essence that attracts all. A sweet-talk with love is the 'Lore of control' (Vashikaran-Mantra) of all living beings.

(13) All problems of the world can be solved only with satisfactory answer of "Love" and by "Anger" only worst is created. In the modern time when many nations of the world are going to become nuclear-power, the only satisfactory answer for maintaining peace is establishing love and mutual peace talks with sweet language otherwise a small mistake of hate or anger will have to result in war. Anger is the only reason for unstability & peace in the world today.

(14) The hot-tempered man becomes weak and gives his remote control (of his weakness) to others who use it whenever they want (for enjoyment purpose also). People know that this person become angry whenever they do something unusual. So they tease and enjoy this man's anger. Anger is one kind of disease that should be treated (with medication or by Yogic exercises such as 'Pranayamas &c.) as early as possible.

(15) Fire burns everything that is put into it to ashes, but the fire of anger not only burns him (the cell of his brain), also ruins the life of short-tempered man. So one should be very careful about his precious life that is not his own property but is the deposit of GOD, given for attaining salvation.

Quest # 155: How can “anger” be controlled?

Answer: "Brahmachari Shri Vivek Bhushan Darshanacharya" [Darshana Yoga Mahavidyalaya, Arya Van Vikas Trust, Rojar, Patra. Sagpur, Dist. Sabarkantha, Gujrat -383307 (India)] has given the following answer to this particular Quest and has shown the following directions to get rid of “ANGER”: To get rid of anger one should observe the following means:

(1) One must have extreme desire that “ I am fed up of this anger. Now I want to get rid of this.”

(2) To get rid of anger, one should have full confidence that “ I will not rest until I remove the anger by working hard on it.

(3) Until and unless the anger is not removed completely, one should continuously work hard and practice for that.

(4) Make contacts and relations with cool-minded peoples &c., and keep away from short-tempered persons.

(5) Try to minimize these types of desires that " Other people must have good behavior with me".

(6) Make it a practice "to keep silent" (Moun) for some time (two or three hours) daily.

(7) When the situations of anger arise, one must keep silent. For this, mouth is to be filled with small quantity of water, till the incident of anger is averted. Afterward throw out the water.

(8) If it is not possible to keep quite in the period of incident of anger and your conversation is a must, then you must take solid decision before that " I'll talk without getting angry ".

(9) If you feel that you will not be able to control your anger in that particular situation, it is better to go away from that place.

(10) If by mistake you do become angry, then to control the environment take a glass of water.

(11) If you already had been in influence of anger, then perform some Regrets, means for that special purpose you spend at least one-hour time for God. Meditate on God and pray. Again take a vow that "I'll never get angry”

(12) Meditation is the best medicine. Meditate on God daily (Morning and Evening) and worship Him that "O Benevolent God! Keep this anger away from me and lead my intellect to illuminated path. Give me peace of mind.”

Quest # 156: What is it called "Mind" and how can one have control over it?

Answer: "Jyotishaam jyotirekam tanme manah" (Yajurveda: 34.1) means, "the mind is that illuminating-light by which all the senses are illuminated and act."

Mind is one of the eleven* principle of senses called 'internal principle of attention' and also known as 'Ubhayendriya'.

[*There are ten external senses consist of five sense organs (Gyanendriyas) + five action organs (Karmendriyas) and one internal sense i.e. the mind (Mana)]

Mind is also called one of the four** 'reflecting medium' i.e. 'Antah-Karan'.

[**'Antah-Karan' consists of principle of attention (Mana), thought (Budhi), memory (Chitta) and individuality (Ahankara)]

"Mind" is an organ of thought and it is said that the mind is the king of all senses because all senses are under its control. Philosophically speaking the mind is actually, the messenger of intellect. It helps the principle senses to activate. To influence the principal senses is its work. Hence the intellect is knowledge-dominated whereas the mind is work-dominated organ. Some time it seems that the mind decides on its own, but it is not true. The principle senses (Gyanendriyas and Karmendriyas) are always in direct contact with the outside world and whatever knowledge they acquire passes them to the mind, and the mind then carries them to the brain. The brain then decides further actions and those decisions are delivered (ordered) to the senses concerned by the mind. The senses then act according to the decision (received by the mind). This whole process is so fast that it seems that everything happens automatically. The mind is the fastest messenger, even faster than the speed of light. But as written earlier, the mind works as a messenger of the intellect. One thing is to be noted here that the mind cannot have more than one knowledge at one time ["Tadayougapadyaalangatwacch Na Manasah" (Nyaaya Shastra 2.24)] hence it carries only one massage from or to the brain and senses. It works under brain and cannot do two works at one time. That is the attribute or characteristic of mind.

The mind cannot stays at place, it always flickers like the pendulum of a clock, and hence it is very difficult to control the mind. But the one, who knows its characteristic (that only one knowledge remains in it at one time or you can say that mind cannot do two things at the same time), can easily have control over it. All senses are under mind's control and the mind itself is under brain's control whereas the brain is under self's (soul's) control. (Refer Kathopanishada: .10) Now, it becomes easy to control the mind. One (the self) has to decide what he wants to do, and give order to the brain and the same is conveyed to the mind. The body including all these organs like brain, mind and senses &c. are insensate objects and hence cannot do anything by itself. With the influence of the soul all the means are seems to be live. The soul is the master of the body-like-chariot. One, who is wise, always keeps his mind busy in some or the other work. Do not keep the mind ideal. Keep it busy. When busy in some work it cannot think of other things. This is one of the ways (trick) to control the wandering/flickering mind.

[The soul is the master in the body because he is a free agent and can control his brain while performing any action, &c. "Know your body as a chariot and your soul as the master of that chariot. Know your intellect or reason as the charioteer (driver) and your mind as the reins." (Kathopanishada: 3.3)]

The mind flicker because of lack of "renunciation" (Vairagya), hence its concentration is essential. And with concentration mind is controlled and visualization of God is possible.

'Pranas' are the most valuable and important things in this human body. One can be alive without any sense organ but can never live for a moment without the vital forces i.e. nervauric forces i.e. 'Pranas'. This is also useful in controlling the mind. 'Pranayamas' is the solution. One who wants to control his mind has to exercise and practice 'Pranayamas'. Regulation of breath is the best solution. In this way one is controlling the mind as well as worshipping God.

In Hindi the mind is known as 'Mana' and when you reverse it becomes 'Nama' i.e. to be polite. If one, who wants to control over his mind, just reverse it, means be polite in life, then the mind will be under your control.

· "Mana eva manushyaanami karanam bandh mokshayoh" (Upanishad) means one can attain salvation as well as bondage of birth and death because of the mind only.

· “This Brahma (God) is attainable by the mind (and not by physical senses). There is no plurality in Him, for He is one. He who consider God as many (and not as one) goes from birth to death and does not attain salvation." Kathopanishada: (4.11)

The mind can also be controlled by the worship of formless Omnipresent God, study of the Vedic literature, politeness, austerities, change of environments, company of the learned and poise people, listening religious-preaching, and trust in God and &c. The most important thing to be observed is "Self-confidence". Without self-confidence nothing can be achieved in life.

[Mind is very vast subject to understand, it is very difficult to express all its points here. One big volume book can be written on it. Only important points are expressed here.]

The most important Quest # 157: What are the beliefs and theories of the Vedas?

Answer: According to the Vedic theories and belief:

(1) GOD, Prakriti and an infinite number of infinitesimal souls are three eternal entities. This eternal "Trinity" is the basis of the creation. (Rigveda: 1.164.20, 1.164.44, and 10.5.7.)

(2) GOD and the souls are conscious and formless hence invisible. The matter i.e. Prakriti (material cause on the universe) is dead inert (insensate object = Jada) matter which changes its Subtle-form to 'Srishti'. The Prakriti is the cause of its effort called Srishti. Being an inert, insensate and dead matter, the Prakriti cannot do anything by it self. With the influence of the Super Soul "GOD", Srishti is created. God makes laws of the nature. Creation and deluge (dissolution of the universe) are beginning less and endless. (Rigveda: 1.164.38) (Atharvaveda: 10.8.25 and 13.1.6)

(3) GOD is one without a second. The souls are infinite in numbers. For a man they are infinite but in God's knowledge they are finite. The souls do not die or take birth, their number remain constant. They cannot be increased or decreased, because they are eternal. (Atharvaveda: 10.8.26) (Rigveda: 6.9.4, 6.9.5)

(4) Creation exists for the period of 4,32,00,00,000 years and the same period of time is fixed for deluge (i.e. dissolution of the creation). The emancipated soul enjoys the bliss of God for the period of 31,10,40,00,00,00,000 years. The time of salvation, which is equal to 36000 times of the creation and dissolution of the universe is also called "Parant-kaal".

(5) The collections of four books, viz., Rig, Yajur, Sama and Atharva, which have been revealed by God contain true knowledge, are the "Vedas". People learn what is true and what is not true from these "Vedas".

The Vedas are "Swatah pramanas" i.e. axiomatic. They are self-authoritative and repositories of all sciences because they are the word of God, and possess the quality of eternalness (Vedanta: 1.3.29 "Ata eva cha Nityam"). They are eternal because they remain unchanged through all ages; No other proof is admissible to prove the authoritativeness of the Vedas. Other proofs only serve only as auxiliary or corroborative evidence. (Yajurveda: 10.8)

There are two kinds of knowledge contained in the Vedas---the Apara and the Para. The Vedas are called "Chhandas" because they remove suffering and cover (man) with happiness. (Rigvedaadi Bhaashya Bhumikaa)

Being word of God, the Vedas are eternal and true knowledge for mankind. In the Vedas, there is full knowledge required by the soul, required for emancipation. God is Omniscient and infinite in knowledge whereas the soul is infinitesimal unity hence has finite capacity to acquire knowledge. Both are conscious entities.

(6) The human species is said to be in the "Bhoga and Yoga Yoni" whereas all other species are said to be in the "Bhoga Yoni". That is why the human race is the best because only in this specie man can acquires wisdom through Vedic knowledge revealed by God, which ends in emancipation of the soul. In state of salvation the soul (with its natural attributes) experiences the bliss of God. After completion the period of salvation he returns to the world and is reborn in the human race.

[According to our earthly time, the period of emancipation is 31,10,40,00,00,00,000 years i.e. "Pranta-kaal, which is 36000 times the period of creation and dissolution of the universe.]

(7) The soul cannot act nor do anything without the body that is his medium for work and action. Ghost, bad omen, spirit, rascal, dead, fairies etc. are imaginary things. They do not exist. The soul resides in one body at one time. [In pregnancy two souls live in body of mother, but both the souls live in their different bodies.] (Atharvaveda: 10.8.28) (Rigveda: 6.47.18)

(8) No soul can enter in a dead body once he has left it. And no soul can enter some one's body with his wish and will. The soul gets new body (birth) with the grace of God, according to his (soul's) residential tendencies and fruits of his actions done in past lives. Dead body is to be exhumed in fire (cremated). The dead body then dissolves in its subtle elements i.e. in its causes, It is scientific and the correct method that the dead body is to exhumed in fire. After 'Antyeshti' no rituals are to be done for the departed soul.

(9) The things made from Prakriti are insensate objects and can be visible and invisible because of their subtle form. The matter can never do anything by itself. The movement in nature is due to inspiration of the "Purusha" i.e. conscious entities. (There are two conscious entities --God and the soul). Prakriti being dead inert matter, can never acquire the attributes of conscious, like eating, drinking laughing, weeping, walking, talking &c. hence idols cannot eat, drink, laugh, weep, walk, talk etc. Idol worshippers are nihilists and atheists.

(10) The laws of nature are called "Ritta" i.e. eternal and unchangeable. One who is born is to die one day. Any thing created will perish. Created universe will dissolve. One who has come must go. Where there is beginning, there must be end to it. No one knows the exact time, place, condition (i.e. when, where and how) of one's death and birth. Birth after death and death after births, day after night and night after day, creation after deluge and deluge after creation, nothing is stable except God. God is "Dhruva".

(11) Impossible can never ever be possible and possible can never be impossible. God is Omnipotent, Omnipresent and Omniscient, hence cannot change or alter His laws of nature once made in the beginning of this cycle of the universe. "In this cycle as in the previous ones" "Yathapurvamakalpayat" (Rigveda: 10.190.1). The soul is eternal, beginning less, imperishable, everlasting and pure. (Atharvaveda: 10.8.26) (Rigveda: 6.9.4, 6.9.5)

(12) Every action has its reaction. [Action and reaction are equal and opposite.] Bad actions and good actions result in bad and good reactions. Re-birth depends upon the impressions of these (bad or good) actions and ‘resident tendencies’ of past infinite lives, under the guidance of the Supreme Soul. God gives the fruits of one's actions by the way of "Life-state, Life--period and Life--experience" i.e. "Jaati-Aayu-Bhog". One has to experience 'Pleasure and Pain', 'Good and Evil', 'Virtue and Vice', Rewards and Punishments', Desirable and Undesirable', Helpful and Unhelpful'. 'Appreciatory and derogatory, according to his good and bad actions. Man alone is responsible for his good or bad actions. The consequences of all actions have to be experienced by the doer at some point in time. Actions are seeds and fruits are its efforts, hence what you sow, shall you reap. What happens to us is the direct result of our actions. We are responsible for our actions hence it is we who have to deal with their consequences. There is no excuse as this is an eternal law of Al-mighty God. No one can avoid this law. Whether it is good or bad action, once it is done, the results are never lost. The consequences arise accordingly and spring out their fruits when the time is ripe. By doing spiritual practice (Octapartite Yogic practice) to gradually untie the knots of our 'Sanskaras' which are the main cause of birth and death, hence pain and complications in our life. This is theory of 'Karma'.

(13) GOD is one without a second. He is infinite. "Tasya Vachakah Pranava" i.e. 'Pranava' (the sacred syllable OM) is His appellation. ‘Pranava’ signifies God. God's personal and the best name known to all is "AUM" (OM), Who is Formless, Infinite and Omnipresent. God is called by hundred different names, such as God, Allah &c. by virtue of possessing manifold nature, attributes and characteristics; there is no any objection if one takes His any name. According to the Vedic philosophy and other authoritative literature the best name of God is "AUM" (OM).

(14) The Supreme Soul (GOD) is not obtained by eloquent speeches, or by intellect or brainpower (or arguments), or by listening (of sermons or Holy Scriptures). But only he whom this Supreme Soul chooses, obtain (knows or realises) Him, and for him He illumines His real form. Ignorance, nescience, darkness are the causes of pain and bondage. Knowledge, education, light is means for salvation, which is the prime object of man's life.

(15) Thorough knowledge, action and communion with God, all three are essential for attaining 'Moksha' i.e. Emancipation. Only knowledge, action or worshipping God is not enough for attaining salvation. When a man becomes free from all the desires lodging in his heart, he attains immortality, i.e. 'Moksha', being freed from pains of repeated birth and death, and, in that stage, he enjoys Supreme Bliss in the company of God. On realizing Him (God) alone one passes beyond death, and there is no other path known for attaining 'Moksha' (i.e. for being free from the circle of births and deaths). [Shvetashvtar Upanishad: chapter III, aphorism VIII]

(16) Thinking, talking, listening, acting, all impressions are registered on one’s mind inputs . These impressions are called 'Sanskaras' or "Residential tendencies" that make grooves on the mind. They dwell so deep that one is compelled to react accordingly. Hence one should keep careful watch over his thoughts because they only develop the right attitude, which result in new actions for our good. There are Sixteen Vedic 'Sanskaras' that are to be essentially performed and acquired by all human beings. These ‘Vedic-Sanskaras' starts from 'Garbhadhan to Antyeshti' i.e. from birth to death.

(17) There is no any gain or effect of so called Magic, Witchcraft, Thread (Dora), Taveez, Tantra, Teekaa, Tilak, Garland, Finger-ring, Gem-Stone, Ash (Bhabhuti) &c. Mantra-power certainly effects man he properly meditated upon, understanding their full significance in the mind, the soul is not shaken but concentrates on God. Recitation, preferably in the mind and consideration of the true meaning of mantra gives power by which one is able to achieve his goal. Whatever one shall desire, it shall be his; i.e. his reasonable desire shall be fulfilled. Only repetition of mantra does not give any special reward. Of course! Mantra is remembered.

(18) "Heaven" is a state in which the 'Jiva' experiences unique happiness since in heaven in heaven means of happiness are supple unto the 'Jiva'. "Hell" is the state in which the 'Jiva' is unusually tormented through instruments of torture. Heaven and hell exist in this world only. One possessed of divine nature, attributes and characteristics are called "Devataa" (Deity). Feminine gender of 'Devataa' is "Devi".

(19) The best 'Siddhi' (the psychic power) of eight accessories of the 'Yoga' is "Bliss of God". Bliss of God is experienced by the soul, in which all types of pain perish. In the state of emancipation all pains are extremely perished. (Rigveda: 10.5.5) (Atharvaveda: 10.2.26, 10.2.27, and 10.2.30)

(20) There exist no miracles and can never exist. The laws on nature are eternal hence there can never be anything (incident) against the laws of nature. It is a blind-faith to believe anything; you listen, without any proof. One only gets darkness with blind-faith &c. can never acquires light. Always trust in God. "One wrong step may lead to a great fall." "If God is our defense, who is against us"?

(21) God does not incarnate and can never ever incarnate Himself. He who believes in incarnation of God is an atheist of one kind. An atheist will never become happy in his life.

(22) Re-birth is essential for creation; otherwise there is no usage the universe. Fruits of one's actions are not possible in one birth. To experience the consequences of past lives, one has to take birth (which ripens into "Life-state, Life-time and Life-experience" i.e. "Jaati-Aayu-Bhog". Patanjali's Yoga- Chapter II, Sutra 13 (“Sati moole Tadvipaako Jatyayurbhogahah") with the grace of God. Re-birth is a perfect theory according to the "Vedic-Siddhanta". (Rigveda: 6.47.18) (Yajurveda: 4.15) (Atharvaveda: 10.8.27, 10.8.28, and 11.4.6)

(23) No form of idol worship is permissible, but the worship of the five gods is our duty because it is sanctioned by the Vedas. This may be termed worship of gods that are truly worthy of reverence. They are mother, father, teacher (Guru), learned guests, and husband for his wife and wife for her husband. These are the five living gods who bring a man into being and bring him up, and it is through them that he gains true knowledge, sound culture and is instructed into the righteous principles of conduct. It is the worship of these that leads one to God. Whoever does not worship them and worship idols instead is a transgressor of Vedic principles. No rituals (Shradha) of the deceased are done, because they get the "Life-state, Life-time and Life-experience" according to their deeds and Sanskaras of infinite lives, under the guidance of the Supreme Soul i.e. God. No one can change or alter someone's destiny. God is Almighty and Just; no one can ever influence God in His works.

(24) Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Sindhu, Bias, Krishna, Godavari, Kaveri &c., rivers are not 'Tirthas or Holy Places'. To take bath in these rivers, impurities of the body can be removed buy impurities of the mind and souls are removed only by “Light of truth” i.e. knowledge of the Vedas. One can never be freed without experiencing the fruits of his actions. Actions rest only after giving its fruits to the doer. All pious acts like the acquisition of knowledge, noble thoughts, divine worship, religious ceremonies, love for truth, continence, control over senses, etc. are veritable places of pilgrimage since the performance of these goodly acts can take one beyond the sea of sorrow. Study of the Vedas, company of the learned, service to mankind, 'Nishkaam actions', worship, glorification and prayer of Almighty God by octapartite (eight steps) Yoga one is emancipated from the bondage of birth and death for the 'Parant-kaal' i.e. the period of 31,10,40,00,00,00,000 years. This is real 'Tirtha' i.e. the holy place of the soul.

(25) No one can grasp God, the great Glorious Supreme Being, from above or across or in the middle (from any side), for He has no form. No one can see Almighty God with physical eyes, for He is not the subject of light. One who realize Him in his/her clean heart (with faith and devotion) and concentrated mind, becomes immortal (free from the circle of birth and death), i.e. attain 'Moksha' (emancipation or salvation).