Mere study of the Vichar Sagar or Panchadasi cannot bring in the experience of pure
Advaitic consciousness. Vedantic gossiping and dry discussions on scriptures cannot help a man
in feeling the unity and oneness of life. You should destroy ruthlessly all sorts of impurities,
hatred, jealousy, envy, idea of superiority and all barriers that separate man from man. This can
be done by incessant, selfless service of humanity with the right mental attitude. Practical
Vedanta is rare in these days. There are dry discussions and meaningless fights over the
nonessentials of religions. People study a few books and pose as Jivanmuktas. Even if there be
one real Jivanmukta, he will be a great dynamic force to guide the whole world. He can change
the destiny of the world. The present-day Jivanmuktas are mere bookworms. Many imagine that
they can become Jivanmuktas by a little study of Laghu Siddhanta Kaumudi and Tarka. Oneness
of life can be had only by Self-realization through constant spiritual practice. Study of scriptures
can help you a bit, but it cannot make you a Jivanmukta.
From "May I answer that" by Swami Sivananda (1987-1963). More Informations on Swami Sivananda: on the Website of Divine Life Society, Photographs of Swami Sivananda, German Pages on Swami Sivananda
Comments