Sri Sathya Sai Speaks

Devotion alone destroys the disease of mundane existence; Devotion alone stirs the yearning for the Divine; Devotion alone is the means of Liberation. (Sanskrith Poem) EMBODIMENTS of Love! To realise the Supreme, the path of devotion is the only royal road. It is the panacea for all worldly ailments and for the disease of birth and death. Devotion is the most effective means for awakening the spiritual urge.

The Upanishaths are the great spiritual legacy of ancient Bharath. "Ishavasyam idham sarvam" (The entire cosmos is the dwelling place of the Lord) declares the Upanishath. If the full import of this one aphorism is understood and practised by Bharatheeyas, the country will be free from all difficulties. Any person who has true faith in this declaration will be free from all troubles.

The Upanishaths declared: "Thath Thvam Asi" (Thou art That). This truth should get implanted in the hearts of devotees. Equally, the great saying, "Aham Brahmasmi" should get enshrined in the hearts of all human beings. "Sarvam Khalu idham Brahma (Verily all this is Brahman). The Brahman permeates everything in the cosmos.

Man has to realise how much he owes to God who has provided so many things for his life and comfort. Prayer is the expression of man's gratitude to God. It is also the means of awakening an awareness of the eternal Divine within him. The Upanishaths beckon man to realise the bliss within him. Prayer is essential for developing love for God.

The prayer should be heart-felt. Ravana worshipped Shiva but without giving up his demonic nature. Hence he could not get the grace of God.

The Lord is pleased with even the simplest things offered with full devotion to Him. It is enough if the devotee offers his body, mind, heart and the joyous tears flowing from his eyes.

Students should realise the supreme value of human birth. The indwelling spirit in every one is the same Divinity. Forms may be different but the Spirit in all is the same. It is pure, unchanging and timeless. It is ever blissful. It is nectarine. Everyone should recognise this Athmik Principle.

The body is like a chariot. It is essential for the journey of life. But you are the charioteer, not the chariot. The four Purusharthas (Goals of life) are the four wheels of the chariot.

Students! In driving the vehicle, you have to be mindful of the state of the road. You have to see how the body is used for various purposes in society according to the prevailing circumstances. You should know how to behave towards elders, teachers, parents and above all, how to love God. You should use your discrimination in the discharge of your duties. Only then you can make the journey of life smooth and safe.

Look upon the body as a shrine in which the Dime is installed. Dedicate all actions to God.

Today many are becoming slaves to wealth, power, position or name. Students should not become such slaves. They should be upholders of sacred ideals. "Help ever; hurt never." Let that be your motto.