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PART THREE
CHAPTER 1 - THE FIVE FACES OF GAYATRI
THE FIVE DIVINE SHEATHS
The trend of 5-faced photographs and images of Gayatri is seen, so that those who take recourse to the spiritual practice of this MahaMantra, ask a pertinent question as to what we should do in future? Mantra chanting, meditation, eulogies to God, reading religious texts, sacrificial fire rites etc. are preliminary practices. As a result of this, the preliminary goal of purification of the body and concentration of the mind is achieved. Yet there are more milestones to be reached. For its attainment spiritual seekers should look out for necessary information and then imbibe alertness, steadfastness and capability, to walk on that path. If a spiritual seeker remembers all this always, then know for sure that the aim behind creating photos/images of a 5-faced Gayatri has been duly achieved.
In reality Gayatri is the worldwide Super Power of the Almighty Lord. It has no particular form. If one desires to have a glimpse of God’s form, it can be in the form of light only. Wisdom is compared to light. The god of Gayatri is Savita. Savita means the sun – a gigantic ball of brilliant light. When Gayatri Super Power manifests in a spiritual seeker, he gets a glimpse of a pinpoint of light, when he meditates. A spiritual seeker sees a small/ big ball of light either in his heart, head, navel or eyes. Sometimes it augments and at other times it diminishes. Many types of shapes, colours of light rays are seen in it. In the beginning stages it keeps oscillating, sometimes it is visible and at other times it disappears. But slowly a state comes when all the different shapes, movement and colours are warded off and only a point of light remains. In the initial stages, this light is of a small shape and with lesser radiance but when one’s soul state advances, this point of light starts enlarging, becomes more dazzling and manifests a lot of bliss. Just as a lotus blooms forth when the early morning sunlight caresses its bud, so too when our inner soul is touched by this divine light, it experiences bliss of Brahman, absolute bliss and bliss of one’s very existence and consciousness. Just as the Indian red-legged partridge (bird) keeps gazing at the moon for the whole night, in the same way a spiritual seeker yearns to experience untold bliss by gazing at this inner light. Sometimes one desires that just as a moth lays down his life for the flame lamp i.e. it gives up its ordinary existence for the glorious flame, so too I must merge my lowly individual ego into this cosmic light of God.
This is a minor glimpse of meditation on the formless Brahman (God). From the standpoint of experience, a spiritual seeker feels he is experiencing Brahman and spiritual wisdom. The gift of wisdom i.e. imbibing great idealistic activities in our daily lives should awaken within us, inspirations and yearnings. Not only awakening but that it is taking the form of a firm resolve, inner state and as truth. This is the symbol of experience of divine light. Because when the ignorance of power of illusion (Maya) and selfishness is overcome, man starts thinking with a generous viewpoint and imbibes acts of great men. Such a person never hesitates to step daringly on the path of spirituality, unlike people full of avarice, selfishness, delusion and narrow worldly attachments. In order to execute appropriate acts, he marches ahead speedily on the path of spiritual well-being with great valour and enterprise.
So far we have dealt with the nature of high statured wisdom and meditation on the divine power in the form of ‘Gayatri’. In the preliminary stages, it is not possible to get such high statured experiences. One must first imbibe preliminary, spiritual practices like Mantra chanting, worship, meditation, eulogies, fire sacrifices etc. At such times it is a must that one takes help of photographs and images. Meditation in the preliminary stages is possible only via name and form. The stage of formless meditation is very much higher up on the scale. Even in that state there is no need to give up image worship and instead by including it in one’s daily chores, one controls one’s accumulated psychic imprints. When a huge building is constructed, its foundation is in the form of pebbles and stones. Once a firm foundation is laid down, one can build a building of various hues and designs. Later one fails to notice the pebbles / stones in the foundation, yet there is no need to renounce or mock at them. One should realize that the basis and firm foundation of that gigantic building are these pebbles, stones etc. The spiritual progress of meditation with form too can be called a foundation stone. In the preliminary stages its requirement is a must. Thus the commencement of spirituality right from ancient times has taken place with the help of image worship and steadily it marches ahead. It is with reference to this that the shape of Gayatri Super Power has been moulded. Just like other images of God, its image too right from ancient times has been used in mediation and worship of God.
Ordinarily only the image of a human face with one face and 2 arms are apt. This is the best from for meditation and worship. Gayatri too should have those kinds of hands and legs just like a spiritual seeker’s beloved mother has. Hence in meditation and worship, one uses the image of Gayatri Mother having 2 arms and one face seated on a white swan and having a book and water pot in her hands. But in some regions one sees images with 5 faces. Maybe its meditation and worship is not apt, yet it has one important message and direction in it. We must see that minutely.
The five faces of Gayatri are the 5 sheaths covering a Jeeva (living being). They are the 5 manifestations and the ten arms of the 10 Sidhis(divine powers) and experiences. Five arms are on the left hand side and the other 5 are on the right hand side. It points out to the 5 material and 5 spiritual powers and Sidhis that are conjoined to Gayatri Super Power. Whenever this Super Power manifests, there one will definitely see the 10 experiences, special qualities and wealth. The meaning of executing spiritual practices is not merely sitting in one particular spot daily so as to perform some scientific rite. In fact it means that by making our entire life a form of spiritual endeavour one should raise the stature of one’s qualities, actions and nature so high, that one sees those divine glories in them, which are found in a symbolic form in the image of the 5-faced Gayatri. The aim of spiritual practices is to generate divine energy. When 10 energies and 10 Sidhis are attained, know for sure that some spiritual seeker is successfully marching ahead on the path of high leveled spiritual practices.
The 5 faces of Gayatri tell us that the 5 demi gods of a living being’s very existence are conjoined to it, so as to fulfill its goal. Because they are under the influence of sleep, they look dead and hence are of no use. As a result a living being exists like a weakling. But if these powerful aides are activated, if their power is aptly utilized, then man instead of leading an ordinary run-of-the-mill life, actually attains extraordinary material and spiritual heights. Man will get a golden chance of renouncing his demeaned state and in its place, lead a life of exalted glory. The 5 elements of the body have been depicted as the 5 demi-gods as follows –
The Lord of space is Vishnu. The goddess of fire is Maheshwari power. The Lord of wind is Sun. The Lord of earth is Shiva and the Lord of water is Ganapati Ganesh. In this manner the 5 gods of our body are the Lords (existence) of the 5 elements (KAPILTANTRA). The 5 Pranas (vital force) too are called 5 demi-gods.
All living beings have 5 demi-gods. Because they are imbibed with vital force, they are Shiva. This group manifests Kundalini Shakti (Divine Serpent Power). Its shape is like that of dazzling lightning. (TANTRARNAV)
Kundalini is awakened when the 5 sheaths of our body are activated. When the Kundalini is activated the 5 sheaths of the body of a spiritual seeker radiates brilliance (MAHAYOG-VIGNAN)
The human body is made up of 5 elements. Its Sattva Guna is seen as the 5 radiations of consciousness. (1) Mind (2) Intellect (3) Will (4) Mind stuff or psyche (5) Ego.
From the Rajas principle of the 5 elements arise, the 5 Pranas or Vital Forces. On this basis the 5 sense organs carry out the functions of the 5 sense objects.
From the Tamas principle of the 5 elements is created the gross/physical body. They form 1) Juice 2) Blood 3) Flesh 4) Bones 5) Marrow. The 5 special organs viz. brain, heart, liver, lungs, kidneys and the 5 sense organs of action are a creation of this area.
The 5 demi-gods given to us, in order to help the living body, are also called the 5 sheaths. Superficially the body looks single yet its power augments more and more. Despite being invisible, it is so powerful that if it is activated, man can become great from lowly and also the cosmic soul (God) from his present status of an individual soul. These 5 coverings of a living being are called the 5 sheaths 1) Food Sheath 2) Vital Force Sheath 3) Mental Sheath 4) Intellectual Sheath 5) Bliss Sheath.
Taitariya Unpanishad proclaims that the Vital Force Sheath is in the Food Sheath, the Mental Sheath is in the Vital Force Sheath, the Intellectual Sheath is in the Mental Sheath and that the Bliss Sheath is in the Intellectual Sheath. Over here there is some parity and at some places there are differences. Its discussion is as follows –
Man is full of food and juice. This is its head. This is its southern aspect. This is its northern aspect. It is the soul. The hind tail is situated on the Merudand (subtle spine).
- TAITARIYA UPANISHAD ( 2/ 1/ 1)
The soul which is within the Food Sheath made up of food, juice etc. is yet separate from it and is the vital force. It is omnipotent. It is of the same shape. Its activities too are similar. The vital force of the Vital Force Sheath is the head. Its Vyan vital force is the Southern aspect and the Apan vital force is the northern aspect. Space is its soul. Its status in earth is tail-like.
- TAITARIYA UPANISHAD ( 2/ 2/ 1)
Separate from the Vital Force Sheath is the Mental Sheath. The Vital Force Sheath overflows with the Mental Sheath. It is very similar to it. The Vital Force Sheath is very similar to the Mental Sheath. Yaju is its head. Rig is the southern aspect and Sam is its northern aspect. Its soul is command.
- TAITARIYA UPANISHAD ( 2/ 3/ 1)
Why are the Vedas correlated to the Mental Sheath? This answer is given in the Shankar Bhashya (commentary) in SankalpaManthan and the sentiments are depicted in the form of Yaju, Rig, Sam Vedas.
Different from the Mental Sheath is the Intellectual Sheath. The Mental Sheath is covered by the Intellectual Sheath. This is the Intellectual Sheath and is similar to Purusha. It is like the Mental Sheath. Faith is its head. Relative truth is its southern aspect and divine truth its northern aspect. Yoga is its soul. Its hind status is in importance.
- TAITARIYA UPANISHAD ( 2/ 4/ 1)
The Bliss Sheath despite dwelling within the Intellectual Sheath is separate from it. The Intellectual Sheath overflows with Bliss Sheath. This too is similar to Purusha (God). It is like the Intellectual Sheath. Beloved is its head. Inner bliss is its southern aspect and external joy is its northern aspect. Bliss is its soul. Its hind status is in Brahman.
- TAITARIYA UPANISHAD ( 2/5/ 1)
In the PANCHDASHI religious text the verses 3,5,6,7,8 of chapter three, depict the 5 sheaths as follows :
The body of a creation of the father’s sperm, which in turn is made from the food that he partakes, is situated in the Food Sheath. Because the body undergoes birth and death, it cannot be the soul. The conscious soul is different from it.
- PANCHDASHI (3/3)
The Vital Force Sheath which is an inspirer of the senses which give power, abound within the body. But this too being unconscious like the body, cannot be the soul. It is separate.
- PANCHDASHI 3/5
What exactly are the 5 sheaths? The Upanishads while describing them say –
The group of sheaths created by food; this visible body is called the Food Sheath. The group of 14 elements along with the vital force (Prana) is called the Vital Force Sheath. The group of sense organs and mind, embedded in these 2 sheaths, is called the Mental Sheath. The Intellectual Sheath plays the roles of discrimination (Viveka) and intellect. The natural form and place of the soul, present within these bodies is called the Bliss Sheath.
In this manner human consciousness has been partitioned in 5 ways. This partitioning is called 5 sheaths. The Food Sheath means sense organ consciousness. The Vital Force Sheath means our very life force. The Mental Sheath means thought process. The Intellectual Sheath means the unconscious center and flow of sentiments. The Bliss Sheath means soul wisdom and activation of the soul.
The state of living beings evolves on the basis of these conscious layers.
The high statured spiritual practice of Gayatri is carried out so as to unveil the 5 sheaths and activate them. In order to point at this high statured spiritual practice, the symbolic form of the 5-faced Gayatri is depicted. This depiction points at the activation of this chief potential of the 5 sheaths of the subtle body and thus attains supreme benefits of this great science.
Via these sheaths one can attain that divine potential which can decorate our personality with wealth and glory. The conscious arena can be made as wealthy as the Lord of Wealth called Kubera. Sheath means a veil or a covering. When these veils are removed one after another, you ultimately come face to face with the absolute truth / reality. Those obstructions in the form of mental taints are removed due to activation / unveiling of the 5 sheaths which are the root cause of the living being failing to attain those powers given by the Lord and as a result of which, he leads a demeaned life.
The partitioning of the 5 sheaths has been presented in the categorization of the three bodies. These 3 are the gross, subtle and casual bodies. It is called Tripada Gayatri (3-legged). The gross body is made up of the food and Vital Force Sheath. The 5 elements and 5 Vital Forces ( Pranas) are embedded in it. The subtle body is made up of the mental and Intellectual Sheath. These 2 can be called conscious intellect and unconscious mind. The casual body is made up of the Bliss Sheath. Certain scholars differ on this subject, yet the reality is this only.
CHAPTER 2 - THE SPIRITUAL PHILOSOPHY OF THE 5 SHEATHS
Food Sheath means sense organ based consciousness, Vital Force Sheath means life force, Mental Sheath means thought center. Intellectual Sheath means flow of emotions and Bliss Sheath means getting centred in the nature of soul wisdom. All these are the 5 levels of consciousness. Living beings of a lower stature revel in a lower state. The consciousness of butterflies etc. limit their thought flow to inspiration of their sense organs. They remain alive with the aid of the life force of their body. Their will power has no role in their birth and death. Man’s urge to lead a long life, allows the body to remain alive, despite the body being weak. But living beings of lower stature give up their very lives even if they come under the influence of weather changes like heat, cold etc. They never yearn to ward off the obstacles that take up their very lives. But it cannot be said that only the lower statured creatures who remain alive only for the sake of eating and procreation, are evolved at the level of the Food Sheath only. Within the human species many are of this stature. They look upon themselves as that blade of grass that flies here and there due to the pressure of external circumstances. Their inner consciousness fails miserably to give them a sacred direction or inspiration. They execute various actions as per the instigation of their sense organs. When they are hungry, they earn money to buy food. When they are sexually excited, they carry out sexual intercourse. For them joy means eating tasty meals, sense organ enjoyment and they try and abstain from hard work. They are not bothered as to what others call them.
The potential of the Vital Force Sheath manifests as life force. The urge for remaining alive can be seen as a firm will power. Only a thinking, radiant and brilliant character can manifest success in various walks of life. Bang opposite to this, because of the taints of poverty, fear, doubt, hopelessness, despair, fury etc., an individual is ignored, demeaned and mocked at. Wherever there is lack of steadfastness in actions, that is inseparably conjoined to enthusiasm, there apart from a downfall nothing else can be noted.
Valiant enterprise can be seen as hard work, steadfastness, alertness, sense of oneness and untold enthusiasm. Weak-minded people full of fear, can never achieve great goals. Whatever they do remains unfulfilled and thus is of no importance. Just as without petrol, a car just stutters, so too a man with weak life force may be seen to commence some task, yet it always remains unfulfilled.
Right from a dacoit to a realized saint, right from social workers to political leaders, every one needs a lot of life force to succeed in their varied tasks. It can be described as rare enthusiasm, firm steadfastness and enough valour to even give up their very lives. The Vital Force Sheath is a storehouse of this force. Because a beast like the lion and a bird like the eagle are violent, they lag much behind when compared with human glory, yet they overflow with vital force. It is due to valour, daring and hard work that they lead their class. From the standpoint of bodily might, other creatures are more powerful in comparison.
Mental Sheath means the power of thought and discrimination (right / wrong). The more this element abounds in a person, the more powerful this person is from the standpoint of will-power and thinking capacity. Every creature has a mind. Even butterflies etc. possess it. Yet those who describe the Mental Sheath say that it is full of farsightedness, logic, radiance and discrimination (Vivek). The state of one’s mind is like wind and hence by not limiting itself to any particular direction, it moves hither-thither in a wayward manner. Like a bird it flies in any direction. A true thinker is one who gives an apt direction to his thought flow, and after obstructing the mind from walking on the path of lowliness, it is encouraged to strive for sacred goals. This is called mastery or victory over one’s mind. No doubt it is very difficult to discipline a wild elephant, yet it is a very useful endeavour. Wild elephants eat up grains in a farmer’s field and uproot houses too and being full of hunger / thirst, they stray waywardly in all directions. But when it is tamed in a disciplined manner, its life too becomes disciplined and it now starts working for the well-being of its master. A controlled mind is akin to a tamed elephant and a wayward / uncontrolled mind is like a wild elephant.
In ordinary parlance the Intellectual Sheath can be called a flow of sentiments. It is related to the psyche that lies in the deep recesses of our consciousness. Emotional energy is deeper than thought energy and its potential and inspiration too is more potent. Man is not only a thinker but that he is also sentimental. It is these sentiments that create high levelled aspirations and due to this inspiration, man becomes agitated. On the other hand thought flow can only create a bit of movement in the brain. The demi-gods and demons have been categorized on the basis of the rise/fall of this emotional conscious center. Individuals full of demonic tendencies are immersed neck deep in vile aspirations like insulting others, arrogance, terrorism and hard heartedness. They take pride in bossing over others and executing terror-like activities. If such people lack daring, by becoming indolent, vain, criminals and wily, they try to prove themselves greater than others. Demonic tendencies can be described as individual unruliness conjoined to avarice, delusion and demonic ego.
When one purifies one’s Intellectual Sheath, one becomes more compassionate, generous, gentlemanly, beloved of all, self-controlled and pious. Such people are known to place themselves in other people’s shoes who are facing great hardships in life. They find it impossible to enjoy their attainments selfishly. It is in their very nature to share all that they have attained, both materially and spiritually. Because they have imbibed the thinking of “live and let live” they are gladly forced to make others as successful (both materially and spiritually) as they themselves are. He uses as less possible qualities like hard work, time, thinking, influence and wealth for himself so that the rest of it can be utilized to help others in society. By mastering desires and other urges, he lives a life of simple living and high thinking so that he can help in warding off hardships and downfall of others in the world. This sort of a pious attitude is definitely the result of purification of the Intellectual Sheath of a particular individual. What is the level of the Intellectual Sheath of a particular individual? To understand this certain tests have to be undergone.
One can gauge how much one’s Bliss Sheath has matured from the fact as to whether that person is always agitated, furious, discontented etc. or whether he is always smiling, light hearted and contented in life. The gross belief in life is that man is joyful or sad due to contact with objects / individuals or circumstances, but if we think deeply this belief is false. Each subject can be thought of with different viewpoints. What is the level of thinking that one imbibes? This is the very cause of man’s joy or sorrow.
When one experiences the true nature of one’s very existence (self) and that of the world, then there is bliss everywhere. Sorrow is the result of forgetting one’s own true nature and spiritual ignorance makes us believe this material world to be the absolute reality. This very spiritual ignorance binds us painfully to the world and is called Maya (power of illusion) too. Creatures endure various tribulations due to the fire of this hell of materialism. In the radiant garden called Existence-Consciousness – Bliss (i.e. God), there is not a drop of pain in it. We are sad today because of lack of divine vision. When we see the distorted form of an individual and his external circumstances, we experience fear and pain. But if our viewpoint is purified, very shortly we can ward off the illusion of our mind which is a creation of deluded vision. Thus can we attain an eternal state of soul bliss and absolute satiation.
A person who has deeply experienced this spiritual philosophy, laughs roaringly when he sees the stage show of this divine magician (God) and like a silent witness, watches magical acts like tearing of the stomach or a rain of crores of rupees. Man’s duty is to perform actions. In order that his duty is not tainted, he like a responsible and action bound person, carries out all tasks with skill, absorption and artistic talent. Thus with his high statured thinking, ideals and sense of duty, he always remains blissfully contented. In order to remain blissful they do not require help from external sense objects, individuals or circumstances. No event or external change has the power to obstruct his inner blissful state. Under all circumstances, whether conducive or otherwise, he always smiles and remains light-hearted. Like an actor in a drama, he merely plays his role to perfection. And yet like a boat in a river and a lotus in mire, he has no difficulty in maintaining inner independence.
The emotional foundation of the 5 sheaths is this. Only when these tests are passed can one find out the inner state of a person. One can thus know how advanced / demeaned a person is as far as his inner soul state is concerned and that whether he has spiritually evolved or not.
While carrying out spiritual practices pertaining to the 5 sheaths, one takes help of Mantra chanting, austerities, meditation, Pranayam, Bandha, Mudra etc. On the basis of 84 Yogas like Rajyog, Hathayog, Layayog, Pranayog, Rijuyog, Jnanyog, Bhaktiyog, Karmayog, Tattvayog etc. one carries out varied spiritual practices. A spiritual seeker imbibes them on the basis of his inner credentials and traditions. Amongst all these spiritual practices, is an admixture of Yoga of Divine Wisdom and Yoga of Action called Tattvayog, in which via the medium of scriptural studies, association with great saints and deep spiritual reflection, one purifies one’s soul. Thus the ideal of steadfastness in actions is imbibed fully and thus one easily marches ahead so as to attain one’s true goal.
CHAPTER 3 - PURIFICATION OF THE FOOD SHEATH AND ITS RESULTS
Within Indian Philosophy, for all-round evolution of human life a lot of emphasis is laid down on the advancement and purification of the Food Sheath. Whether it is material progress or attainment of spiritual wealth, for both it is most required and is of great utility value. In Yogic spiritual exercises, it is the spiritual practices pertaining to the Food Sheath that has been given a prime spot and we find descriptions of many benefits and spiritual powers (Sidhis) related to it. With its help a Yogi remains healthy and masters his bodily center. Attainments like keeping the body warm/ cold as per one’s will, not being influenced at all by seasonal changes, attaining natural sources of energy directly so that one keeps one’s body alive without depending on food intake, long life, signs of old age not seen in one’s body etc. are dependent on spiritual practices pertaining to the Food Sheath.
All these benefits are very useful in advancing on the path of spiritual practices too and it is beneficial also in our day to day worldly life. All these benefits look very attractive. Yet on the path of Yoga, these are very preliminary steps. This is most required because the body should at no point refuse to comply when one carries out Yogic spiritual practices. Only if the Food Sheath is nourished and purified aptly, can a person in the midst of rise /fall in his life, balance his bodily journey so that ultimately he can march ahead pauselessly to reach the spiritual goal.
There is one more subtle aspect for which the Food Sheath has to be nurtured. On the path of soul progress, a great deal of divine sensations are generated on the body. A vile natured Food Sheath creates obstacles and this cannot cooperate in an appropriate manner. A lot of divine potential is released. Thus there is a dire need of balancing one’s psyche by calmly enduring its vibrations. All of this is possible only if the Food Sheath is purified and evolved.
In order to avail the benefits of all these attainments and potentials, a spiritual seeker must have a clear understanding of the nature and ordinary qualities of the Food Sheath. In relation to all the 5 sheaths, it is required that one clearly understands the role and importance of the Food Sheath.
Our existence is a combination of gross / subtle elements of varied statures. Within it, every unit has its own importance. When one points out the importance of one unit, it does not mean that the other units are of lesser importance because on the one hand, they supplement one another and on the other, none of them can take any monopoly. For example when a building is constructed, a mortar is made use of and in it one mixes cement, sand, water, colours etc. Even if one of the ingredients is increased or decreased, the mortar will be of no use. Its firmness, beauty, strength etc. is apt when the ingredients are mixed in apt quantities. This precept also applies to our very existence. Every unit, and sheath of our existence has its own importance. Hence it is most required that we give due attention to its high stature and balance.
A greater part of the creation of human beings is related to gross objects i.e. the 5 elements. For the nourishment and advancement of their existence, there is a need of gross materials. This part of the bodily center is called Food Sheath. It is made up of infinite gross units. They are called cells. It is quite clear that those qualities prevalent in cells will manifest in the bodily center too since these cells unite to form the human body. Without causing changes in these cells, it is not possible to transform the human body- as per our wishes. In order to mould the Food Sheath as per requirements, one needs to pay attention to the root units.
For example take a cloth. Of what type is this cloth? This depends on the type of thread utilized. What fibres were used to make these threads? Is the cloth as tough as canvas, as flashy as silk, as attractive as terylene, as warm as wool, comfortable as flannel etc. All this is dependent on the threads and fibres used to make it.
In the same way the body too has many special characteristics. The body has many special qualities like swiftness found in monkeys and deers, strength like lions and elephants, hard work like bullocks and horses, harshness like a rhinoceros, serenity like a swan, elegant movement like a snake etc. and these qualities can be created too. This is a very gross classification. If we take a look at a subtle level, special qualities like the body living naturally in the polar and Himalayan extreme cold conditions, or having the power to endure extreme heat in the equatorial regions, or enduring floods and desert conditions are the manifestations of the bodily cells.
As per research on the bodies of various species, it is clear that organs like the heart, liver, skin, ear etc. are controlled by subtle bodily parts and our health is dependent on proper functioning of these subtle parts. Amongst these subtle parts, hormones play a leading roles. Its activity or inactivity influences our bodily and mental states in a major way. The shape of the body could be of any type but its nature is a creation of the influence of these hormones. No doubt these hormones also are responsible for the shape of the body. There are many examples wherein due to a special state of our mind, the beauty in a woman is seen at those times when under normal circumstances it should be ageing. This definitely is the result of the influence of hormones. Although medical science and cosmetic surgery has not reached these heights, yet a little bit of its understanding has been attained by modern medical sciences.
The leading research scientist of hormonal sciences, Dr. Krukshek has called the basic endocrine glands of these hormones as “magical hormones” and he further elaborates, that in order to understand the true state of an individual, one should first examine the balance and functions of these hormones so that we can gauge its stature and entire personality.
Hormones are those chemical principles or mysterious life-juices which are secreted by endocrine glands. Today modern scientists are unaware of the extraordinary capabilities of these glands and they have only a bare minimum understanding of these glands. Yet one hopes that if its potential can be understood and controlled well, man can bring in amazing changes in his inner personality. Researchers have unearthed innumerable proofs of the amazing influence of these hormones and the endocrine glands which secrete them. In the book “Astrological Correlations with the Ductless Glands” endocrine glands have been depicted as inner planets. Just as the various planets of the solar system mutually balance one another, in the same way these endocrine glands maintain our bodily and mental balance.
In the above book, the Sun is compared to the pineal gland, Moon to the pituitary gland, Mars with parathyroid glands, Mercury with thyroid gland, Jupiter with adrenal gland and Venus with thymus gland. The authors of “Occult Anatomy” have depicted these glands as “Ether Centres” and their instigation as conjoined to the inner consciousness. It appears as though via the medium of these glands from the unknown conscious centers, man attains extraordinary benefits.
As per the above information, endocrine glands are subtly related to cosmic consciousness. Along with cosmic powers, they execute the tasks of give ad take. According to modern anatomy, it influences the body and brain. It means that these hormonal glands function both externally and internally. Its influence is extraordinary while radiating the various potentials of one’s personality. It is believed that since we cannot control these glands, it is not possible to change its nature and mode of action. But in reality this is not true. Via spiritual practices that influence the subtle body, the state of these glands can be transformed and by decreasing the secretion of unwanted hormones, we can augment the quantity of those hormones that function aptly.
This task is possible only via the medium of spirituality. In recent times a lot of research has been carried out in the field of Genetic Science and it has been noted that such causes help in the creation of the mind and inner character of an human being that are conjoined in a good or bad manner and that neither can one escape its influence nor can one transform it for the better. Over here the solution is only Material Sciences which can help in bringing about desired changes in the genetics and hereditary psychic imprints of one’s inner nature. From this standpoint the power of spiritual solutions is stronger when compared to Anatomical Sciences and overall health based sciences. With its help not only can one transform from the very roots, one’s bodily and mental states, but that also one’s entire individuality can be transformed for the better.
CHAPTER 4 - MODERN SCIENCES’ STANDPOINT WITH REFERENCE TO THE BASIS OF ONE’S INNER PERSONALITY
According to the research study made by Geneticists it is the genes of cells that shape the character of a new born child and this is going on from innumerable generations. They are created from the subtle heirs of the father’s and mother’s lineage. Via the mode of admixture, not only do they maintain hereditary balance but that due to strange changes (mutations), something new is created. If we wish to make our generation taintless, radiant and pious charactered, we will have to influence and transform this gene activity. But this task is extremely hard to fulfill. Till today no such solution/method has been found that can dive deep enough so as to mould these subtle units in a desired manner.
We know that this task seems impossible yet it is most required that we find a way to transform the genes that mould our personality. Else despite amassing all other means like situations, environment, food habits, sanctification of education, the creation of individualities will remain at the level of “rules and laws”. Regarding this a ray of hope can be found only in the spiritual realm. Via spirituality changes can be brought about in the inner functioning of the Food Sheath. Within it lies the hope of changing the state of genes so as to augur a bright future for the coming generations. Not only this but because of paternal influence, one can bring about desired changes in the cast of an adult. Discussions are carried out on topics like bodily transmutations and mental brainwashing. The results of spiritual practice based programs, in the transformations of individualities, can be more invigorating.
From research studies in Genetics it is clear that not only is the influence of nourishment of food in genes very nominal but that the gist of our individuality viz. bodily strength, zest, practice, skilful actions, behaviour, evolution, level of character, advancement of intellectual capabilities etc. are also embedded in it. They too are the cause of bodily taints but of more importance is the mental state, intellectual capability and character based actions. If due to lethargy and indolence, the radiance and potential of our individuality gets scattered to nought, not only do bodily taints manifest, but that the stature of our inner personality to get demoted. Thus not only our own life fails to attain divine capabilities, but that it influences our own children in a negative manner.
Research studies in Genetics can only console us that apt blood admixture can us a more evolved future lineage. The possibilities of establishing and counter-establishing too has been accepted. This consolation is applicable only to transformation of the future and not our present circumstances. Scientists say that “Genes generally remain inactive”. They are activated only when a male unites with a female during sexual union. The activity of genes commences in a paired manner. One pair comes from the father and the other comes from the mother. This pair unites to make new arrangements for procreation. If both pairs are of a single nature, its creation too will be similar but if there are differences, the result of their union will be seen differently. If one part is dominant it sill suppress the other resisting part and show its qualities. Yet in a passive manner, the qualities of the resistant part too is present. When they unite the shape is formed. When water is mixed with water, the result is water only, yet the weight augments. But 2 separate parts that are different in nature, will not only create a form, but will also change its state and nature. When 2 colours viz. yellow and blue are mixed, they lose their natural colour and will instead create a new third colour. In the lineage of genes special characteristics will remain as they are, yet its visible form will get transformed. When a female horse and a male donkey are united sexually, a 3rd new species is seen called ass. New characteristics are seen to manifest in the flowers and fruits of plant cuttings.
On the basis of Genetics only this possibility is seen that uniting of apt parts can result in a more advanced new generation. Within that field there is a question that how can one ward off the taints found in such pairs? When good unites with good, the result is good. Then how can we rule out the possibility of more taints arising when bad mixes with bad? If good starts fighting with bad, then a medium state result can ensue yet how can we attain the goal of desired progress?
No doubt Genetics research unveils certain precepts which were so far hidden from our view. Yet it is not within the reach of Genetics too to throw apt light on desired changes. Great results have been seen in genetical cross-breeding in plants. Artificial insemination too has given good results. A few changes have been seen in the bodily make-up. A new shaped baby is born to a father of white skin and mother of black skin (and vice-versa). The Anglo-Indian race is very much separate from others. Yet the root problem has so far remained unsolved. How can we ward off the diseases or bad qualities conjoined to genes in the paternal lineage? This is a tough task to be faced by the future generation of human beings. The main question is how to overcome unwanted elements manifesting in future generations. How can they overcome this state which has to be endured so painfully? It seems it is a very difficult task to bring in changes in this field.
Each gene of human beings has many units. Today researchers are trying to find out the influence of venomous bacteria and viruses on these genes. Dr. Hargobind Khurana, the winner of a Nobel Prize has created a new gene that was made up of only 166 units. It took totally 6 years to create a gene of a new bacteria that was of 166 units. This was merely an experiment. It is very difficult to make a gene of a human being since it is made up of innumerable units. Here one more point to be noted is that every cell of a creature is made up of innumerable genes. They create and operate various parts/ organs of a human body.
Enzymes are responsible for controlling the function of production carried out by genes of various organs /parts of the human body. These enzymes are related to various genes via the medium of nucleic acids. Via applications of magnetic energy, these enzymes are incited so that the evolution cycle of genes can be influenced. Today modern scientists are conducting research on this subject.
In ancient India those austerities were carried out for procreating pious children which augmented the inherent magnetic energy in a human body. By carrying out penance in Badarinath (Himalayas in India) for 12 years, Krishna and Rukmini manifested intense magnetic energy. As a result they begetted a great son called Pradyumna.
Scientists believe that special characteristics of genes can be influenced by radiations. Within the body, arrangements can be made for radiation therapy via focusing of various radiations. Via electrical fields, both the chemical and electrical qualities of genes can be sanctified. Research is being carried out in the fields of sound and super sound areas. Scientists have faith that further research can be carried out in the field of mutating genes via sound energy.
Material modern science may or may not achieve the above goal, but Material Science can definitely attain it. In India via spiritual practices, the bodily electricity was made more radiant via Mantra chanting, with great success so as to create super sound waves and radiations via Yajnas. Such programs aided in creating Vritrasura who had the power to gain victory over Indra and also pious sons like Ram/ Lakshman in Dashratha’s palace.
Material Science commences where Material Science ends. The next step of gross is subtle. Just like the hormones secreted from endocrine glands, the mysterious units of Genetics called genes too are extraordinary. One should not despair when material science fails to influence it. Well-managed Material Science has the capacity not only to influence/ purify hormones and genes but also various other mysterious centers, which can make an ordinary human life divinely extraordinary. The 1st category of experiments / programs of the Food Sheath of Material Science can achieve this very goal.
CHAPTER 5 - THE SUBTLE PARTS OF THE FOOD SHEATH
After studying the superficial covering of the Food Sheath, if one dives deeper, one can clearly note the manifestation of subtle potentials. The entire body of a spiritual seeker in any area can be of great help in his main spiritual practice. When a great artist imagines a picture in his mind, every unit of the body is influenced by its vibrations. The vibrations of that imagination enters the movements of one’s body and the inert paint brush, creates a live painting with ordinary colours. A spiritual seeker of speech can create an extraordinary influence due to the vibrations created in his mind. One fails to gauge, what special quality manifests in the gross eyes and muscles of a very dedicated surgeon, which helps him in identifying subtle symptoms of various diseases. Behind the miracles of such great seekers is the fact that every unit of the Food Sheath has the capacity to experience, imbibe and create various influences with the help of these subtle vibrations. Their psychic imprints too take up this characteristic. For any high leveled spiritual practice it is imperative that one makes one’s Food Sheath aptly cultured, capable so as to gain success in the fields of science, devotion to God etc. For this one has to mould these units in a special way. It can be called the spiritual practice of purifying and thus advancing one’s Food Sheath.
The question arises as to whether the fundamental units of the Food Sheath can be moulded in a desired manner? Yes, it is possible. This can be proved on the basis of both the eternal beliefs of Indian philosophy and contemporary modern scientific research. Clothes remain as they are once they are made. Canvas cannot be converted to flannel because its center is inert. But the body is conscious. Not only is it possible to create new cells and destroy old cells but it is its natural and most required function. When this function slows down, a human being ages. Old-age is nothing but the creation of healthy cells in the Food Sheath and the slowing down of the destruction of old ones. By making this function well-managed and controlled, one can gradually bring in desired changes in the bodily center.
In ordinary men too the units of the Food Sheath keep changing. But because it is not well-managed nor is it controlled aptly, it becomes an aimless function. Ordinarily old machines and their various parts are replaced with new ones, in a well managed factory. In it production of various items continues all the time. But if an artistic sculptor wishes to augment the level of his creation, ordinary, run of the mill ideas will not work. By keeping in focus that particular goal, he has to make wise, minute changes in his mode of functioning. Right from screws and machines upto various tools and arrangements made for raw materials, new programs have to be made accordingly. By looking upon every cell of the body as a live screw, tool, machine, it is most required that a spiritual seeker partakes apt food/ rest so as to attain high goals.
Why is there a difference between the Food Sheath of an ordinary person and a Yogi? On what basis is it required? This can be understood well by studying an ordinary example. Take one line of electricity. Electricity is transmitted via wires. To support these wires, we make use of poles. Such materials are attached between wires and the pole, so that it can stop electricity from flowing towards the ground from the poles. These materials are called insulators. For electricity of ordinary voltage, we make use of wires, poles and insulators. But if we wish to transmit electricity of high voltage, all the materials utilized will have to be of a higher class. The same holds true for an ordinary layman and a spiritual seeker. For an ordinary life we require ordinary bio-electricity yet if one’s goal is very high, the energy too should be very intense and high leveled. In order to generate this high leveled energy, there is a need of a more powerful center. Hence a good spiritual seeker should endeavour hard to purify, nourish and advance his Food Sheath. Only then will it help one to purify one’s vital force, mental, intellectual and Bliss Sheath and one will thus become capable of working in tandem with its advanced state.
The talk of working in tandem is not merely superficial but that it has its own special import. Inert units cannot work in tandem because it is possible only for conscious objects. Today’s modern science too looks upon every unit of the Food Sheath, every cell as an independent living unit. The heart of every cell is the nucleus. Its respiratory center is called mitochondria. Every cell has a Golgi apparatus that executes digestive functions. Every cell is capable of reproducing cells like itself. This arrangement is called “Nucleolus and Chromatin Network” by modern scientists. A cell has its own special charge of bioelectricity which is its very life force. In this manner every cell, in the form of an independent living unit, maintains its own existence and corroborates with the bodily center.
In order that these innumerable cells of the Food Sheath create a natural capacity to achieve this high goal and that for this end it creates cells of special qualities, then the supreme aim can be achieved. For this it is readied via a well-programmed method in a special way. For that one has to imbibe apt thinking, rest, food intake etc. in a special well-managed mode. Just as if one wishes to nurture one’s child appropriately, it is not enough merely to give him material means because he will also need a special character to go higher up on the ladder of life. In the same way instruments like food/ rest, meditation, devotion etc. need to be imbibed to sanctify these cells. When all these unite, it takes the optimum form of a radiating spiritual practice of the Food Sheath.
CHAPTER 6 - THE PURIFICATION AND ADVANCEMENT OF THE MENTAL SHEATH
At every step of our ordinary social transactions, we witness the miracles of our intellectual capabilities. An alert intellectual individual marches ahead in his chosen field with great success. Bang opposite to this people with weak intellects, lag behind in various areas despite being blessed with conducive circumstances. In order to solve dire problems of our lives and in order to attain benefits of soul glory, a radiant mind is most required. Via the nervous system these elements are spread out widely in the entire body and the brain is the chief center. In spiritual parlance, this widespread knowledge is the Mental Sheath. Ordinarily for intellectual advancement, schools and other mediums of education are utilized. But the spiritual methods used for advancing the mental conscious center, are based on spiritual practices. With its help the mental energy is purified and evolved.
Spiritual practices for the advancement of the Mental Sheath is like the bloody Mahabharat war wherein one wards off the taints and distortions that have entered our intellectual arena. Alongwith this is conjoined the firm resolve (Sankalp) to establish Ram’s rule or a righteous world government.
With reference to this it is apt to give due thought to scientific discipline and control. In ancient times, wind, bile, phlegm, indigestion, blockage of faeces, change in weather, attack of venomous germs etc. were thought to be causes of various diseases. But modern research says that the mental center fully controls our body and it further elaborates that diseases based on external causes are nothing but the desire of the life force of our body. Thus with common remedies these diseases can be cured. Intense diseases are generally a result of mental distortions. These diseases cannot be cured merely by medicines and that mental purification is most required in such cases.
This is the chief cause not only of bodily diseases but also of mental illnesses. An individual who executes vile actions due to a vile intellect, not only faces bodily diseases but also undergoes mental illnesses. Maybe such a person does not turn mad yet because of a certain amount of imbalance, he remains semi-agitated. They undergo pain for no reason and for no reason they inflict pain on others. Such a person’s mental state is indeed pitiful. Even if one merely sees such a person, one feels turmoiled. In comparison to people with bodily diseases, not only is the number of people with mental taints infinitely more, but that the pain too is more severe. The method of curing such illnesses does not lie in hospitals but is dependent on purification of the mind. The cures can take place in other ways too yet on the basis of Material Sciences, it can be more successfully overcome via sanctification of the Mental Sheath and other spiritual practices.
Students of Anatomy know fully well that nerves conjoined to the brain are spread out in the entire body. It is through these nerves that such an intricate “machine” i.e. the brain functions aptly. The action power, experiences of the sense organs open up in the brain. The sense organs (apparatus) can only gather information and send it to the brain center. When one undergoes mental agitation, the entire body loosens itself and one’s power of actions too lags behind. One’s face becomes sad when one faces fear, worries, sorrow, despair etc. and the entire body tends to collapse. If one studies the body language of a person who is extremely furious, it is clear that all his bodily parts get excited and agitated with great intensity. Bang opposite to this a man full of joy and serenity who always experiences good health and thus lives a long life. But a person full of agitation keeps losing bodily weight and is seen to die at a very young age. These facts clearly tell us that more than the influence of food, rest, water etc. on our body, it is the influence of our mental state that is infinitely more intense.
In the body via muscular groups and tubeless glands, sentiments are active. Our entire body is full of muscular networks. Ordinarily muscles are white in colour and are gross like wires. All our organs work with the help of muscles. The main muscle that reaches every organ is as gross as a rope. Its branches and sub-branches become more and more thin. Many sub-branches are as thin as a cotton fibre.
Every muscular network has 2 parts 1) Voluntary 2) Involuntary Via actions of moving, bending, swerving, picking up objects etc. we move our hands / legs as per our wish. This in turn is due to voluntary muscles. But we cannot function thus with involuntary muscles. They carry out tasks of our inner organs like heart beats, exhaling / inhaling etc.
The center of the involuntary muscles lives in the brain and is called hypothalamus. It is this hypothalamus that controls the male and female glands. Also an enzyme called Mobamine Oxidase, despite being scattered in the entire body, is more concentrated in the central muscular system. Hypothalamus is known to activate the pituitary gland. From this various hormones are secreted which are reactions of our sentiments and causes of other new sentiments. When new circumstances are created, the tubeless glands are pressurized and thus they secrete new hormones. These hormones react variedly in the body and based on this, new sentiments manifest. For e.g. suppose the pituitary gland secretes a hormone due to the pressure of a germ of a disease, it will result in intense turbulence in the body. Such a person becomes uneasy and thus falls down on the bed. Now in this state of illness, all the sentiments hoarded in the sub-conscious mind start manifesting externally. As a result one sees varied reaction based symptoms in the body.
When we say that the Mental Sheath is present in the brain, we mean that it is its central action office. But its subtle parts i.e. its branches and subbranches are spread all over the body. The cells of the brain are more wise and experienced than cells of other organs. Hence they are called the leaders of all cells of the body. When these leader cells move in a particular direction, the other cells follow suit. In order that the entire subtle body remains healthy, joyful, zealous and progressive, it is most required that the brain too is of that stature. If the leader keeps despairing and experiences anguish, how can one aspire for advancement? The state of a leader whether positive or negative, definitely influences his /her followers.
Dr. Fenkel, a psychologist of Vienna opines that the mental state influences one’s bodily health. The cause of mental balance is the true achievement of one’s life. Hence he advanced the method of “Logotherapy”. Dr. Fenkel believes that if a person is unaware of the true goal of life and its activities, he can never remain healthy. The basis of a blissful life is attainment of the true goal of human life. Dr. Fenkel’s Logotherapy encompasses discussion of topics liked/disliked by his patient so as to inspire him to walk on the path of the true goal of human life. As soon as a person understands the true goal of human life, he concentrates his mind on the energies present within him. Thus he imbibes steadfast faith in himself and starts regaining good health. If the mental state is healthy, it can help the physical body to regain good health.
A definite and clear cut reaction is seen on the gross/physical body due to the movements of the subtle body. The cause of nervous system disorders is the suppressed vile thoughts of our psyche. Even anatomists opine, that merely on the basis of mental imprints, many bodily diseases manifest. Dr. Tuk, the author of the book “Influence of the Mind upon the Body” writes – “Diseases like turmoil, indolence, bodily organs becoming handicapped, bile, leprosy, hair loss, decrease of R.B.C.’s, fear, kidney diseases, distortion of the bodily organ of a foetus in its mother’s womb, skin diseases, boils, eczema etc. are the result of mental agitation and vile thinking.” Mental turmoil, vile sentiments, undesirable thinking are distortions of the subtle body which clearly influence our physical body. In the same way a sacred viewpoint, healthy thinking, idealistic thought flow etc. radiates our subtle body and this great influence is seen on the gross body too.
In the proposition of the extraordinary importance of positive thinking based on high ideals, Dr. Benett has put his own case in front of us. Upto the age of 50 years Dr. Benett lost good health due to despair and undesirable thinking. When he read about the good influence of positive thinking, he started imbibing it in his own life. He renounced the inertness of his mind alongwith mental distortions so as to fill his heart with faith based on sacred aspirations. Thus his life overflowed with bliss and serenity. Dr. Benett who had lived a life of bliss for 20 continuous years, printed photographs of himself when he was 50 years and another one when he was 70 years, in his book. The photograph when he was 50 years was indeed crestfallen and withered but the photograph when he was 70 years old was so full of bliss. Where had the withered face disappeared? Because now at the age of 70 years, he looked youthful and oozed with zest for life.
Uptil now all research studies of this sort indicate that if one’s mind / intellect are agitated, that person too experiences pain. Hatred, jealousy, greed etc. definitely affect a person in a big way. When the intellect experiences bliss, all bodily cells too rejoice. All these cells experience oneness between themselves. If one cell experiences pain /joy, other cells too get influenced. They share their joys and sorrows. Their mutual relationship of oneness is amazing. There are rare examples of true friendship, intense oneness and sympathy for one another. Imagine that one particular individual is extremely hungry. In front of him is a plate of delicious food items. At that moment he gets a phone call that a beloved one has died. Immediately his mind is crowded with thoughts of his beloved kin. The mind experiences oneness with the kin. The cells of the brain get agitated. This agitation is immediately passed on to the entire body. The tongue starts drying up. Those cells which were previously screaming for food due to hunger, are now silenced. The heart and other organs too slump. The heart sinks, the eyes are covered with darkness and the body slumps. Thus the entire body is influenced by this mental turmoil. It is very clear that the state of the brain cells influence the state of the bodily cells.
The famous scientist cum author Dr. Bennett in his book “Old Age – Cause and Prevention” writes about a very entertaining and educative incident. A 16-year old French girl decided to marry a young man of American origin. Because the young man was poor, it was decided that he would first earn wealth in America and then return to France to get married. Within three years the young man earned a lot of wealth but as luck would have it, he was involved in a court case and thus could not return to France for 16 years. After 16 years when he returned to France, he was amazed to see that the health and beauty of his fiancée remained unchanged and hence even now at an advanced age, she radiated beauty of a 16 year old girl.
While analyzing the above incident Dr. Bennett writes – Mother Nature controls the human body in such a manner that every cell of the body, which lives for 90 days is disposed off from the body via bodily dirt, just as the dirt in the sea is taken to the shores by flow and ebb of tides. Old age means the activity of cell transformation which gets depleted as one starts aging. But in the above incident, Mother Nature’s influence of aging was warded off. Why was it so?
Dr. Bennett induced the woman to give an answer and she said – Every day I stood in front of a full length mirror and stared at myself. I would keep thinking that I am exactly as I was yesterday. My body could not be influenced by the day’s changes. This steadfastness of my will power, kept me joyous and zestful everyday. This is the very reason why I am looking like a 16 year old girl despite being actually 34 years old.” He clearly understood the value of purification of the subtle body, elevation of our thinking and one’s power of resolve (Sankalp-Shakti) after reading the book written by a great spiritualist, Dr. Marden called “An Iron Ball”. Dr. Marden writes “If only man reforms his thinking and raises the level of his character, he can also transform his physical body.” These precepts became a medicinal herb for him which gave a new life to crores of humans. If one imbibes love for all, friendship, compassion and generous thinking, anyone can benefit immensely.
Based on one’s emotions the network of veins in our brain either spread out widely or shrink in size and thus manifest sensitive reactions.
It is unhealthy thoughts that give rise to bodily diseases. Right from an ordinary headache to an intense one called migraine, it is emotional tension that is its root cause. As a result the veins contract and thus the headache starts all over again. Today it has been observed that the cause of 85% of headaches is sentimental tension.
Because of sentimental tension and that of the network of veins people after partaking their meals, experience that their heart is heavy and the food refuses to move downwards. Due to excessive tension, one feels nauseous and the heart gets agitated.
Muscular disease that are a result of emotional tension, show symptoms of belching, stomach heaviness, wind based distortions alongwith those of the skin, eczema, itching etc.
Today regarding hip pain it is said that majority of them are due to emotional stress.
Despite knowing that majority of today’s diseases are the result of emotional stress, a major question arises as to how does one tackle emotional stress? The answer is simple – imbibing a wise viewpoint in ones’ daily routine. Without practice this wise viewpoint can never be fully imbibed. It is only via practice that one looks upon life as a joyous game and that it is not like a heavy burden carried by an aging mule. The true royal path to be followed, encompasses understanding of our limitations, making apt use of our bodily/mental energy, warding off our selfish ego, shouldering responsibilities and always advancing one’s creative thoughts in one’s daily living.
Ordinarily we wrongly look upon harshness, anger, fights etc. as a synonym of energy whereas a psychologist labels all this as “childish tantrums”. These are in fact symbols of weakness. A truly powerful person is humble and steadfast in ideals. Anger and an argumentative attitude is the creation of weakness. Practice of simplicity/ self-control is the fount of energy. But remember that futile anger vented against one’s own weakness, too is not beneficial. Because vile imprints in one’s psyche have gathered slowly over a long period of time, it becomes apparent that to uproot them, one should patiently work hard in a slow but sure manner. The best method is intense, ceaseless practice to uproot vile imprints of the mind. One should always remember that the basis of diseases is vileness of the mind and inethical activity. Thus it is easy to overcome them by imbibing purity of mind, love, compassion and working for the welfare of the entire world.
It is also possible to wash / clean the intellect via scientific methods. Yet spiritual methods are more powerful and capable. Its influence is infinitely more supreme.
According to the technique of Electrical Stimulation of Brain (E.S.B.), many Asian Universities have partly succeeded in brain washing. This has so far been experimented on lower species like rats, monkeys, rabbits, dogs, cats etc. They completely forget to show liking for food, enmity, friendship, fear, attacking others etc. and instead behave in a very strange manner. A cat was made to confront a rat, yet instead of attacking the rat, the cat got scared and started hiding out of fear. Further experimentation showed them attacking one another in a bloody manner, embracing one another in the very next moment etc. due to electrical influence. This electricity was aimed at the brain cells. This holds true for human beings too. Man’s brain is more sacred. It has a greater power of reacting and hence in order to change it, more effort shall have to be made. It will take time to attain total success but the clear principles unearthed via research opines that even man can be induced to think in a certain manner, made to believe in certain ideals and instigated to imbibe a specific mode of action.
The spiritual practices pertaining to the Mental Sheath not only cleans the brain but also makes it more advanced, cultured and sacred.
The Mental Sheath encompasses the entire bodily and psychic arena. It influences both these areas. Because it is in a disarranged and distorted state in the psyche, its reaction is in the form of a destructive influence on the bodily and psychic area. When our individuality is turbulent, our viewpoint and actions too get tainted. As a result our activities turn vile. It is thus clear that under these circumstances, only agitations and strifes will be witnessed. Many obstructions will crop up. Chaos and danger will attack us. Our entire life will be converted to hell. None can save us from this hell because even if out of ignorance, we point fingers at others for our downfall, the fact remains that it is we ourselves who are responsible for it. The precept of the mental state manifesting as external circumstances is so clear that none can refute it. Without transforming our inner character, we cannot come out of this hell-like situation. Without overcoming obstacles in our daily lives, we cannot elevate ourselves. We cannot overcome external circumstances without changing our minds.
The Mental Sheath blesses us with various types of skills and successes. Sometimes certain special people have extraordinary mental capabilities. The memory of certain people is so advanced that others can only be wonderstruck. Some people manifest skills at a very young age and thus gain immense name and fame. The answer to this extraordinary talent, is that the Mental Sheath of such individuals is highly activated. From their previous births they have collected so much talent that it is manifesting at a very young age in this birth. As per the Theory of Karma (Action) man comes into this world with psychic imprints (Sanskars) of innumerable past births. Hence it could be that the Mental Sheath of such talented people is more evolved.
Behind all these amazing events, the secret is that the scattered mind gets focused. Coincidences of these sort are based on certain cosmic laws. Attainments of past births play a major role in such causes. Man enters this world alongwith psychic imprints (Sanskars) of innumerable births. Amongst them one could be intellectual evolution. This evolution is not just the result of school education or teachings of close relatives. In fact this is just an increase in informative knowledge. If the flow of electrical energy of a powerful brain turns in the direction of a weak brain, an intense change takes place in its sharpness and this can be seen as a rise in the measure of special proteins of the brain. For intellectual nourishment, proximity of thinkers with an advanced consciousness is very useful. Their powerful vital force can fulfill the lack of a weak brain. In laboratories normal electricity is directed towards special cells of the brain and for a certain time span, the nature of these creatures can be transformed. The vital force of radiant people can influence the mental state of weak-minded people in a permanent manner.
Yale resident Dr. George Delgodo, a brain specialist has proved via his researches that the brain can either be activated or made more latent by directing external electricity towards it. Thus such a person can be induced to carry out various tasks and commands.
The audience was wonderstruck when Dr. George publicly exhibited his experiments. His hands had an electrical apparatus and in certain parts and certain number of the brain region of various creatures, electrodes were placed. Thus a radio type communication was set up between the machine and a living creature. On the basis of induced instructions, a creature acts in such a manner which is bang opposite to his otherwise normal nature. Serene creatures became ferocious and ferocious creatures became astonishingly calm. Under the influence of this external electric treatment, buffalos, monkeys, rats, cats etc. behaved in a manner which was totally unexpected by the layman.
These experiments have been carried out on human beings too and by controlling their powers of will, wisdom and action, they were forced to think and act in a desired manner.
The rare speciality of memory power is so advanced in certain individuals, that one can only be amazed. Raivi Elija of Lithunia was well-known for memorizing 2 thousand books. He was tested in various ways and always came out with flying colours. The French political leader Lian Gaiswata was very fond of Victor Hugo’s writings. He had memorized many pages of these books and time and again he quoted them form his sharp memory. Not one word was out of place. In fact he knew which line was written on which page number.
Richard Porsan, a Greek scholar, memorized many books which he had read. What he read today could be quoted by him even after one month passed by and he would recite it as though he had just read it a few minutes back. Harry Nelson Pilsbury an American citizen called the Magician of Chess could memorize the moves of 20 chess players and could simultaneously direct them. All this was carried out with zeal and zest. Many players were taught by him and thus the game moved on speedily. German’s famous librarian Maithurin Besiray could impeccably repeat what others said once only. He had the amazing capacity to repeat flawlessly, conversations with others in languages that were totally alien to him. Once 12 people speaking 12 different languages were conversing. And Maithurin flawlessly repeated their conversation one by one. An 8-year old son of Burmans called Jera Colburn would give answers of extremely difficult mathematical problems without calculating them with pen and paper. He amazed all great Mathematicians of London with his superb mathematical skills. Even John Martin Des of Hamburg was well-known for answering mathematical problems orally. In those days his mathematical brain was so advanced that even today’s advanced mathematical computers fail to match his skills.
The great biologist Holger Heider of Gottenburg University, after analyzing the strange movements of the brain based on Molecular Biological studies, concluded that the educative and thinking tasks that make the intellect alert, augments the proportion of certain chemicals in the brain cells. Thus they become more sensitive and make widespread, the area of intelligence.
This proves that the act of evolving the area of the brain not only purifies the brain area but that other areas too can be influenced. Intelligence and radiance are 2 sides of mental alertness. This mental alertness can be seen right from birth itself, as a result of spiritual capacities gathered form innumerable previous lives. Further it can be augmented by undergoing spiritual practices. By imbibing the spiritual practice of purification of the Mental Sheath, one can enter this area.
There was a translator in U.S.S.R. who could translate one source language into 4 target languages at one and the same time and this he would do by dictating the translated matters to 4 stenographers for 4 different languages.
When a philosopher called Jeremy Benthem was 4 years old, he could speak correct Latin and Greek. Germany’s Mathematician called Javarious amazed everyone by mentally adding numbers that had 200 digits. A garage mechanic of U.S.A. could memorize innumerable car number plates and on seeing any car, he could describe how it had been repaired previously.
When John Francis of Columbia University was appointed as a Professor of Natural History, his age was only 16 years.
Once Oxford University made extra arrangements for mathematical training of a 4 year old girl called Babel Thompson. This girl has mastered Numerology, Trigonometry and primary Material Sciences at a very young age. How can one educate a girl who has not undergone the curriculum of primary education? To solve this problem, a special panel of top educationists has been set up.
Madras Music Academy announced a special scholarship for a 2½ year old boy called Ravi Kiran for his outstanding singing skills. Not only did Ravi Kiran master the art of playing various musical instruments but that he would immediately point out errors on the part of other musicians.
A Japanese called Hanava Hokaishee was born in the year 1722 and he died at the age of 101 years in the year 1823. At the age of 7 years he became blind. Yet despite being blind, he alertly heard what others said and thus imbibed knowledge. He would very skillfully hear others and log it into his brain. As a result his brain was so radiant that people were wonderstruck. Later in Japan a book of 2820 chapters was published on the basis of Hanava’s knowledge. Uptil today this is the biggest book in the world.
An 8-year old child of Vermont called Jera Colburn, without studying mathematics systematically and without any calculations using pen and paper, answered very difficult mathematical questions and thus he amazed other great mathematicians. When a difficult mathematical problem was given to other great Mathematicians, they would take some time to solve them but Colburn would answer the same problem in a flash of a moment. Thus people were wonderstruck because Colburn had never studied various theorems, riders, laws etc. of Mathematics.
Once a Mathematician called Jodia Wallston was immersed in a mathematical problem which was very difficult. One day he met John Martin Des who possessed a powerful intellect. Des solved that problem in a few seconds. This was because Des was famous everywhere for solving difficult mathematical problems in a flash.
Sir John Fielding was a Judge in England. Although he was blind, his ears were so alert that he could recognize the voice of 3000 criminals whose case he had heard. He could easily identify them and name these criminals. After many years when the case was over, they would come to meet Sir John who would with the help of his sharp hearing capacity, identify those criminals. This radiant memory of Sir John was revered by all for a great time span.
A famous poet called Francisco Mairiya Garibaldi was born in the 14th century. He was an Italian. He was blessed with the art of writing poems with both his hands simultaneously. One poetry he wrote in Latin and the other in ancient Greek.
The chief pastor of Canterbury, Thomas Fracker created a rare record by memorizing the Bible in only 3 months. He was born in the year 1724 and died in 1812. The well-known poet of Scotland, Duncan Mac Intayar was famous not only in his country but in entire Europe. But he neither knew how to read or write. He had evolved his skills only by listening and understanding.
A Greek called Porson had memorized all poems written by Milton and he could recite it not only straight but in a reverse manner too.
Once Lokroj amazed his audience with his powerful memory. He first heard 12 poetries of 12 different languages which he had never studied before and the very next moment, he repeated these poems with precision.
The director of the National Library of Munich, Joseph Bernard Duncan had a powerful memory. He not only studied 6 different languages but mastered them too. He would ask 6 stenographers of 6 different languages to take dictation in those 6 languages. It is thus very rare to find so much knowledge in the intellect alongwith a powerful memory.
An Indian lady called Shakuntala Devi who was called Wizard of Mathematics, once gave a show on London T.V. At that time one person asked her to solve a difficult mathematical problem. In a flash she answered, that the problem asked itself was incorrect. This question had been constructed by great Mathematicians of Britain. Hence everyone wondered how could this question be wrong? But when the B.B.C. crew members got this question analyzed, they found that truly this mathematical problem / question was incorrect. They also accepted that, “the power and capacity of the brain is much more than how much we actually understand.”
University of New South Wales in Sydney (Australia) had a computer that weighed 20,000 pounds. This computer functioned with the help of electricity and was operated by the great Mathematicians, R. G. Smart and Barry Thornton. When a question of Mathematics was fed into the computer, it took some time in answering it but Shakuntala Devi answered it in a flash before the computer gave its answer. Everyone was amazed that Shakuntala Devi’s answer was cent percent correct.
With reference to the amazing powers of the mind, scientists have carried out various research studies and The Psychological Research Committee has published all the data in a book called “The Human Personality And Its Survival of Bodily Death”. In this book examples of small children have been published, who were so skilful in fields like mathematics, music, art etc. that even their teachers could not match them in their talent. Adi Shankaracharya too had amazed his preceptor with his radiant intellect. When a 5 year old boy possesses a very radiant intellect without undergoing primary education, means that he has gathered this brilliance from his past births. The attainments of past births is proof, of the independent existence of the soul.
Two hundred years back, a boy called Harris Hanenken was born in Germany. When he was 3 years old, he memorized thousands of Latin sayings. He could easily add, subtract, multiply, divide numbers. At this tender age he decided to study French and Geography. The creator of “Cybernatics”, Weiner was 5 years old. He started taking interest in Science just like 18-year old students. Gateux wrote poems at the tender age of 6 years. Byron, Scott and Darwin who gained fame for the Theory of Evolution were very brilliant even as small children. The first scientific study of Pascal was published at the age of 15 years and in it, he had proved more than 100 scientific problems.
America’s material scientist, Dr. Stevenson has gathered 600 examples in which children upto the age of 14 years have given proof of the events of their past births. Out of these 170 were Indian children.
A 3 year old talented boy of Germany called Hamen Ken was a leader in research of the brain. Not only did he study advanced scientific texts at that age, but he could also analyze them in detail.
The principle of attainments via spiritual practices works in all areas of life. Everyone knows that hard work, reaps rich dividends. People take up various tasks in this world only because they are convinced that any action will definitely give fruits. This holds true for spiritual practices too. If it is based on spiritual precepts and carried out systematically, one will definitely reap rich fruits.
In order to awaken/purify the Mental Sheath, concentration and meditation are given a lot of importance. As a result of this, one’s Sankalpa(power of resolve) becomes steadfast and that we focus intensely on our goal. Benefits like advancing of the intellect and activation of brilliance in one’s character, too are attained.
CHAPTER 7 - INTENSE LIFE FORCE EMBEDDED IN THE VITAL FORCE SHEATH
According to Indian Spiritual Philosophy a Vital Force Sheath is embedded in the gross / physical body of a human being. The vital force body – Yogis call the vital force center in the body as the Vital Force Sheath. Indian literature has given a detailed description of not only its existence but also its activities, characteristics and influences. For a long time material sciences disapproved of this ideology. But when more and more studies were carried out in the field of anatomy, scientists slowly but surely started accepting the existence of the Vital Force Sheath of the vital force center.
Now the influences of this subtle center is being tapped by the gross apparatus / machines of material science. An electronic science specialist named Amion Kirliyaan has invented such a style of photography which can give us a photograph of the electronic movements taking place near every human being. From this it is clear that alongwith the gross body, even the subtle body exists and it is made of such materials which is of a different stature when compared to the gross materials made of electrons. It is even more active.
Once England’s Dr. Kilner ws examining some patients in his hospital. While examining a patient who was on the verge of death, he noticed a strange colourful light on the glass of his microscope which till that day he had never noticed. Next day, on examining the patient after removing his clothes, Dr. Kilner was amazed because he saw the colourful light of the previous day now moving in the form of a wave. All around the patient, this coloured light was spread out for a distance of about 6-7 inches. In this colourful light were present certain rare chemical elements. He noticed that when the light was dim, the patient’s body and nerves became weak. After sometime the light suddenly disappeared. Immediately when Dr. Kilner examined the pulse of the patient, the latter was dead. After getting this incident published in a newspaper, Dr. Kilner maintained that, apart from this particular material, in which is present the fundamental characteristics of life, is present an extremely subtle center. If it was destroyed, this would not happen.
The vital force principle has been called a live energy. According to material science, energy is of 6 types : 1) Heat 2) Light 3) Magnet 4) Electricity 5) Sound 6) Friction or mechanical energy. This type of energy can be converted to another type of energy. The bodily live (conscious) energy despite being different from the energies elucidated by modern material science, can be understood through this medium.
Science believes that energy can neither be created nor destroyed and that it can only be transformed. It is also believed that although energy can conjoin to any gross object, its existence is separate from the object. Further this energy can be transferred from a gross object to another. This view is affirmed by Indian philosophers with reference to the vital force (Prana). Today Western scientists too are accepting this ideology.
With reference to this, Thomas Edison the inventor of the phonogram and the light bulb, has wisely said – the existence of a living being remains in the form of high-levelled network of electrical particles even when it separates from the body. After death although this network is not very systematic yet they remain conjoined to one another. They do not get scattered and apart from moving about in space, they re-enter the cycle of life /death and thus are born anew. Its creation is very much like the umbrella of a honeybee. She leaves the old umbrella and simultaneously makes a new one. In the same way the high-levelled network of electrical particles continue to exist alongwith the materials of the gross body, aspirations, sensations etc. despite undergoing the infinite cycles of birth / death.
From the above evidence, one has to accept the existence of the Vital Force Sheath which has a separate existence, despite being related to the Food Sheath of the physical body. By itself one finds all the 6 energies in the body elucidated by modern science. Yet the inner form of the Vital Force Sheath that pervades the entire body, can be clearly seen as bioelectricity in our body.
Anatomical science has concentrated its research studies on bodily electricity. Some centers in the body have been categorically accepted as electricity producing centers. Chief amongst these centers are the head, heart and eyes. The electricity producing center in the brain is called Reticular Activating System by modern science. Some brain parts situated in the deep recesses of the center of the brain, manifest electrical impulses and these spread out in the entire brain region. This electrical impulse helps the brain control other centers and maintains a close relationship with itself. Modern medical science uses the E.E.G. or Electro Encephalograph which measures the electrical impulses of the brain. On its basis one pinpoints various diseases of the brain. The cords of the E.E.G. are placed at various points of the head. Generally the electrical potential measured is of 1 millivolt.
For the working of the heart, about 20 microvolt of electricity is required. This electricity is produced in the heart itself. Pace-maker is that area in the heart which produces electrical vibrations. As soon as this electrical vibration is produced, it spreads in the entire heart of a matured human being in 0.8 seconds. In this time span the heart completes one beat. Due to the beating and control of the heart, this electricity vibrates. The influence of this electrical vibration is mapped by the E.C.G. or Electrocardiograph. In order to gauge heart diseases, these electrical vibrations are taken as the basis.
According to modern scientists, there is an arrangement of photo-electric cells in the eyes. The special features of this photoelectric cell is that it converts light into electric waves. Today scientists have accepted the theory of capacity of the eyes to produce electricity by this method. In order to gauge and classify eye diseases, the electrical vibrations of the eyes are recorded on the E.R.G. or the Electro Retinograph.
From all these evidences it can be proved that alongwith the production of electrical vibrations in certain centers of the body, it is circulated in the body too. With the help of E.E.G. the vibrations of brain electricity of every part of the scalp can be recorded. Not only this but many a times its influence can be clearly perceived in the parts below the neck region. The influence of electricity of the heart can be recorded upto the ankle joints with the help of E.C.G. This vibration is of equal potency very near the heart or far away from it. Today medical doctors have firm faith in gauging diseases via the medium of the vital force flow of the body. In the inactivity of flesh etc and diseases of the muscle centers, the method of measuring the vital force is made use of. For this the E.M.G. or Electro Myograph is made use of. This is clear proof of the movement and presence of electrical energy in the flesh or muscular areas of every part of the body. In fact even the thin layer of skin has electricity. While examining the skin, medical doctors make use of the Galvanic Skin Response.
Apart from these scientific evidences, there is proof of capacity of electrical sensations in the brain, skin etc. If one is either attracted or repelled by another person, it is the result of oneness or differentiation of bodily electricity. When 2 friends meet and embrace one another, there is a give and take of electricity. An advanced Yogi via his SankalpaShakti (Power of resolve) is capable of transferring his bodily electricity into another person’s body. But with common touch sensation, a part of bodily electrical give and take does persist. Those vibrations experienced via touch, shaking hands, embraces etc. are but the result of give and take of electrical impulses. Today modern scientists too, are unanimously accepting this fact.
In the Indian philosophical context, the central point of electrical waves is called the Vital Force Sheath. The vibration, electrical force, vital force is the very gist of our life. This vital force is the basis of progress. With its value, wealth can be bought. It is the mouth source of Sidhis (divine powers) and glories. This vital force exists in infinite measure in our inner personality. By augmenting its magnetic principle, it can be attained and imbibed in desired amounts from the cosmic vital principle. This storehouse of vital force present within a human being is called the Vital Force Sheath. Ordinarily this exists in a latent, unawakened state and it only helps in leading a life of limitations. If on the basis of spiritual practices it is activated, the extraordinary manifests from the ordinary. The potential of the vital force is unlimited. By marching ahead in the direction of infinity, via vital force spiritual practices, it is possible to attain intense power.
In Material Sciences there is a sentimental description of the glory of the vital force principle. By looking upon it as Brahman, it is named as the supreme Brahmin (God) Shakti (energy). Emphasis is laid on executing spiritual practices pertaining to the vital force. What exactly is this Prana (vital force)? This needs deep thinking.
Scientists have found the existence of such an energy, which forces creatures to think and objects to move. It is said that this is that very fundamental inspiring energy that induces movement in the immovable and activity in inactivity. In reality the systematic movements of energies and living beings is possible only due to its influence. At the root of all the known and unknown areas, is the activity of this principle and with its movements, it incites others to act. According to scientists the name of this consolidated inert / conscious states is Prana (vital force). Those who look upon materialism as the ultimate reality, describe it as gravity, ether, magnet etc. or else call it as its high-levelled state.
Scientists who believe in the independent existence of consciousness called it either the “psychic force” or “latent heat” and the Indian seers called it Prana or vital force. Regarding this Indian philosophers opine, that the body exists because of the vital force. Because of it the body is nourished, re-created, evolved and researched into. Meaning that every action is executed because of the vital force. The Vital Force Sheath embedded in the Food Sheath, directs and controls the latter. Today scientists accept the existence of vital force electricity as the minutest particle of the bodily center. Every cell of the body is an electric charge. Not only this, subtle particles like genes present in the nucleus of a cell (numbering in lakhs) that are responsible for reproduction, are known and accepted as “packtinets”. Meaning that the subtle unit of the body discovered by modern science, too accepts the presence of electrical force in the form of vital force (Prana).
It has always been accepted that the vital force controls bodily movements. In Yogic literature, the vital force that controls various bodily activities is named variedly. They are called the five Vital Forces. Thus the vital force active in various areas of the body is said to have 5 sub-Vital Forces. Even modern anatomical sciences have described the inner bodily activities on the basis of the electrical circulation cycle. That circulatory cycle, carried upto a certain part of the body, is done so via the medium of electrical transportation cycle. The circulatory cells possess both positive and negative electrical charge (both within and without) and from this various circulatory cycles commence. Scientifically this is called Depolarisation and Repolarisation of the self. As per Indian beliefs this activity is called Vyan as described in the 5 Pranas (vital force).
After the food is digested in the intestines etc. it is converted to various biochemicals conducive to the human body. This juice goes beyond the intestinal skin and only then can it circulate in the entire body. Some biochemicals merge into the blood via ordinary circulation but for others, the body has to make use of extra energy. This activity is called active transport. Scientists call the electrical activity of the intestines as Sodium pump. When the positive and negative electrical charge of sodium changes, they get transported across the walls of the cell. Due to its contact, the differential capacity of nourishing juicy like glucose, etc. augments and thus gets circulated alongwith it. This function corresponds to Prana of the 5 Pranas.
This activity continues in all cells. Every cell draws necessary nourishment and converts it into heat energy. This heat energy is continuously produced in the entire body and circulated too. Digestion takes place not only in the intestines but in every cell of the body. For that biochemical juices are transported to each cell of the body. Indian seers call this vital force energy, that aid the above acitivity as “Saman”. In the same way electrochemicals are responsible for the evacuation of the faeces resulting from destruction of old cells and during the process of maturity of juice in every cell. Vital force science in India calls it “Apan”.
Amongst the 5 Pranas one of them is “Udan”. Its function is to keep firm all the parts of the body. In scientific parlance it is called “electrical stimulation.” Due to the bodily electrical impulses, the cells of the foods sheath either start acting or becoming lax.
In this manner how are the various inner processes of the body executed? Modern science is unable to fully describe all this. For that they have elucidated many gross principles. Amongst them are the Sodium-Potassium cycle, Potassium pump, A.T.F.A.D.P. System, and Cyclic A.M.P. Its minute functioning can be understood by a scholar of biochemistry. Yet it is a part of the principle of “electro-chemistry”. According to this principle, certain chemicals of a solution get differentiated as positive or negative particles. These are called ions. The ions have a high capacity of circulation. After desired circulation, the positive and negatively charged ions again become neutral from the electrical standpoint. On this basis various processes of the body like digestion, purification, evolution, reproduction are conducted. From the philosophical standpoint, the existence and activities of the vital force principle in the body is very clear.
When one analyses the deep, subtle movements of the body, after having studied the gross ones, one sees the influence and control of the bodily vital force in it too. Everyone knows the wonderful function of hormones and enzymes in the body. The function of both these induce amazing transformation and circulation of energy in the body. The most subtle actions of the body can be influenced via electrical impulses. Today science has not achieved this feat. But with the help of Material Sciences, when the Vital Force Sheath is sanctified, the Indian Rishis of yore have achieved this feat. Also there is evidence of influencing not only other people and society, but the entire world, by purifying one’s vital force of the body.
What do the Indian Rishis mean while talking of the Prana (vital force)? The meaning is hidden in the very name. Prana can be divided into 2 parts viz. “Pra” and “na”. “Na” means life, energy, consciousness. Thus it means the very life force of all living beings / creatures.
Now the question arises as to what is the life force of consciousness? Here the answer is given in the form of Sankalpai.e. mental resolve. It has infinite forms, right from the urge to remain alive and progressiveness. The yearnings of the psyche incite and give direction, to the power of thought and action. Things will not work if only yearnings, desires exist. Because these can only be called wild imagination. Sankalpaor mental resolve means the union of desire alongwith the enterprise to satiate it. Desired enterprise like aspiration, gist, scheme and endeavour are conjoined to a mental resolve. This mental resolve is the true power of a human life and on its basis, one either rises high or falls down in life. On the basis of mental resolves, external circumstances are created. The vital force (Prana) of consciousness is this very mental resolve. Great philosophers, seers have hence exhorted us all to devote ourselves to it, so as to advance it further. The Prashnopanishad describes Prana (vital force) as a mental resolve or Sankalpa.
Whatever is the resolve of the soul, so too is the resolve of this vital force. It is this very vital force that induces a living being to take up bodies of various species (dog, cat, bacteria, plant etc.) on the basis of its mental resolve.
According to the Theory of Evolution, a single celled creature created at the commencement of this world has evolved further step by step on the basis of this power of resolve. According to Material Sciences Brahman (God) who was One initially, decided to become many and it is this will power of Brahman that became this world in the form of Para (divine) and Apara (material) ‘Prakriti’ (nature). This further amplified as the 5 elements and 5 Pranas (vital force).
All the potential power that works in the deep recesses of this cosmos is called vital force. It influences both inert matter and consciousness. Devotion is a class of its one aspect that inspires mankind to act piously. The capacity of consciousness is bilateral. Because it can also work as vileness in the area of lowliness. Thus vital force means not this lowly aspect, but those sacred resolves which leads our life towards greatness. Human progress is very much dependent on the amount of availability of this vital force (Prana). Keeping in mind this special characteristic, it is also called Brahmi Shakti (divine energy), divine inspiration and God Himself. It can also be described as voice of the soul. The Indian scriptures describe the vital force as follows –
This vital force is God. It is the Emperor of the cosmos, speech is its Queen. The ears are the gate-keepers. Eyes are its body-guards, mind is its emissary, sense organs its maid-servant. This gift has been handed over to vital force – God by the demi-gods.
- Kausheetaki Brahmanopanishad (2/1)
I bow down to this vital force, on whom depends the entire cosmos. It is the Lord of all and in which exists this entire universe.
- Atharva (6/1)
I am divine intellect in the form of the vital force. Devote yourselves to me, in the form of life-span and nectar. Life exists only as long as vital force exists. The basis of attaining immortality in this cosmos is vital force.
- Shankaracharya
That divine brilliance in the form of vital force, spreads in the entire world alongwith the rising of the sun.
- Prashnopanishad (1/7)
It is the vital force (Prana) that is the causal God. The Science of Mantras and 5 sheaths is dependent on the vital force.
That very divine brilliance of vital force energy dazzles, in the eyes, speech, thinking and actions. This brilliance is called radiance in the intellectual area and valour in the arena of actions. In various walks of life, this mental prowess radiates as skill /talent. Vital force energy is called all-encompassing capability.
This vital force heats up by taking the form of fire. This is also sun, clouds, Indra, wind, earth. This is God in the form of truth / false and immortality.
- Prashnopanishad (2/5)
This vital force definitely is immortality.
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