Question & Answer sessions with HH Sri Datta Vijayananda Teertha Swamiji – 2015
Why does Mother Goddess need an army ?
Question : Jaya Guru Datta Swamiji. Upon Sri Swamiji’s declaration that Datta Kriya Yoga is the best means, we have all joined the class to learn Yoga. We have been taught that Yoga students should not be running after everything. But we feel a desire to attend the Pujas, Yajnas, Homas, and other rituals performed by Swamiji and we run to participate in them. Should we go to them, or should we remain only in Dhyana? Regarding service to Guru, is only mental Seva recognized, or is physical Seva also beneficial? We are confused as to what to do. Please tell us.
Answer : A good question. You know about purity of thought, word, and action. Scriptures say that Guru should be served by all three means. Service to Guru must be done mentally, orally, and physically. All three are important.
Should one simply remain absorbed in Dhyana? If one has reached that level, the question does not arise. It is to be happy about. That is what Guru desires from a disciple. But since not everybody can remain in Dhyana Samadhi for 24 hours, we are required to offer service to Guru. Guru Charitra says that even the greatest Yogi still has to serve Guru. It means following Guru’s instructions. One should not entertain doubts.
If the mind wavers whether or not to attend a Puja, ritual or some program, it is better to run and participate. The doubt itself causes great confusion. If the doubt does not arise, it is fine. If it arises, it is best to go and attend. The influence of that noble activity, be it Puja, Homa, or Hanuman Chalisa Parayana conducted by Swamiji, will purify the mind. If you sit for Dhyana, and are worried that you are missing something special, it is better you go there. Anxiety gives no benefit.
Why force the mind towards Dhyana, when Sadguru’s presence is there? Go happily. Attend the event and sit for Dhyana upon your return. Do not be completely immersed only in outside physical activities. Gradually reduce your preoccupation with those. You are told to allow time to do Pranayama, Yoga, and Dhyana. Most of you here are living in the world as Samsaaris, regardless of whether married or not. Worldly persons must engage in Satkarma/beneficial deeds. While doing those, also practice Yoga. Good activities must never be given up. When it is time for Satkarma to stop, as a dried coconut frond falls to the ground on its own, it will simply get discontinued. Till that happens, continue the good deeds, practice Yoga, and do some Dhyana.
Does this answer apply to events elsewhere? Activities conducted directly by Sadguru cannot be compared with other programs. The mind must be forcefully withdrawn from worldly matters to engage with focus in Dhyana and Yoga for least for 10-15 minutes at home or another appropriate location.
Jaya Guru Datta