21
Bestowing Grace
I bow down to Sree Ganesh
I bow down to Sree Saraswati
I bow down to the *XU.
I bow down to the Family Deity
I bow down to Sree Sita-Ramachandra
I bow down to Sree SadJXU.
Sainath.
1.
At the end of the last chapter, we mentioned about how
Thakur and others had darshan of a great person. Listen to
the story attentively now.
2.
Wasted are the words of a speaker if by listening to them, a
listener is not affected and does not show the sign that he
is overwhelmed with emotions and gets goose pimples.
3.
A narration is worthless if the listeners are not in an
ecstasy, not choked with emotions and if their eyes are not
filled with tears of happiness.
4.
Baba’s speech was captivating. His style of teaching
exceptionally good. His arguments were unique. I lay my head
at his feet who reveals something new at every step.
5.
One can never be able to meet a holy man till fortune smiles
on him. Even if such a person is very close, a sinful person
is unable to discover him.
6.
There is no need to go far to find proof of this axiom
because I am going to tell you about my own experience.
7.
There was a famous saint called Pir Maulana who was residing
at Bandra. Hindus, Parsis and learned men from other
religions used to come to take the darshan of that pure
soul.
8.
I was a magistrate of that place. His Mujawar by name Inus,
tried indefatigably to persuade me to come for darshan.
9.
‘Thousands of people come there. Why should I go there on
account of the pressure, and spoil my name?’
10.
Some such thoughts came to me, and I never went for the
darshan. I was, as it were, afraid of my own shadow and
somehow ill-luck came in the way.
11.
Many years passed. Thereafter I was transferred from there.
Later, when the opportune time came I became attached to
Shirdi, for all times.
12.
In short, the unfortunate can never reach the vicinity of
the saints. This most difficult of meetings can be
accomplished only by God’s Grace.
13.
Now listen to a pleasing story about this. There are from
times unknown such secret arrangements of saints, and they
go on carrying their mission, while the world is unaware of
it.
14.
As time flows, the saints choose the place of their liking
and appear in human form, to fulfil some mission. But, in
reality, they are not different from one another.
15.
The place – time – person, though different, a saint
realises the essence of the personality of other saints.
They are all united inwardly, as they are only one,
16.
like the outposts of an emperor situated at different
places, with officers in charge to look after the population
and its prosperity.
17.
Similarly, the emperor of boundless happiness manifests at
different places and controls the invisible reins of his own
empire.
18.
Once, a certain gentleman, who had the privilege of an
education in English, holding a Bachelor of Arts degree,
climbed step by step and became a big officer.
19.
Later on, he became a Mamlatdar and then rose to be an
Assistant Collector. Because of good fortune, he came in
contact with Sai Baba.
20.
Outwardly these posts look very attractive, like mountains
from a distance, but if you go nearer to them, they are
found surrounded by trees which give an itch. But at the
same time these posts command prestige.
21.
Those pleasant days are long past when people used to crave
for such posts. The general public, too, honoured the
officers and mutually they were happy.
22.
Let us now talk about present conditions. Gone are those
days when it was nice to be in Government Service. Now the
responsibilities have increased and the emoluments are
insufficient.
23.
In the olden times, the Mamlatdar was respected and the
Collector was honoured. But that grandeur is no more though
one works hard.
24.
Be it so. After all, by spending a lot of money on education
and after studying very hard, one was able to acquire these
high posts.
25.
First of all, one had to pass the Bachelor of Arts degree;
then become a clerk in the government office; earn a monthly
salary of Rs. 30/-. In this manner, one had to go on fo-. In this manner, one had to go on for
some time.
26.
During the course of time, he had to go to the ghats, learn
the surveyors work and live amongst them, measure lands and
pass departmental exams.
27.
Later on, if a higher official in the service died leaving
his position vacant, then he would be able to get that post.
28.
Enough of this lengthy and uninteresting narration. Why
should I go on prattling about it unnecessarily? Listen to
that story about how such a person met Sai.
29.
Near Belgaum, there is a town called Vadgaon. A team of
surveyors had camped there.
30.
In this town, there was a saint staying there. They went to
take his darshan, bowed their heads at his feet and received
his blessings.
31.
That holy person was holding a book called ‘Vichar Sagar’ by
Nischal Das1, which he was reading to them.
32.
After a while, when these people started to take his leave,
the saint spoke to that particular gentleman with great
delight. Listen to that.
33.
“You may leave now. But be sure to read this book, by which
your wishes will come true. Bear this in mind.
34.
Later on, in the course of your work, when you go towards
the north, because of your good fortune you will have the
darshan of a great man on the way.
35.
He will show you the path, further on, and will grant you
peace of mind. He will give you advice and impress upon you
the knowledge of the Self.”
36.
The work there was completed; and he was transferred to
Junnar. On the way to Junnar, he had to cross the Nane Ghat,
which was a big obstacle.
37.
The road was very formidable and could be traversed only on
the back of a he-buffalo, which was the only means of
transport. So a buffalo was brought for him to ride on.
38.
Later on, the man may become a senior official and may get
horses and carriages. But, presently, he had to satisfy
himself with a buffalo. There was no choice.
39.
It was impossible to climb the ghat on foot. There was no
other convenient transport. Such was the speciality of the
Nane Ghat. Thus the conveyance was really unusual.
40.
So he took the decision, and a buffalo was made ready. It
was saddled and with great difficulty he mounted on it.
41.
Though he did mount it, there was a steep climb. The vehicle
being, of all things, a buffalo, he was reduced to swinging
and swaying and he developed a pain in the back.
42.
So be it. The journey ended. The Junnar mission was
completed. He got a transfer order and he moved from there.
43.
He was transferred to Kalyan, where he made the acquaintance
of Chandorkar and heard of Sainath’s fame. A desire arose to
have his darshan.
44.
That chance came the very next day because Chandorkar was
planning a trip to Shirdi. He said to him “Accompany me on
this pilgrimage to Shirdi.
45.
Let us take Baba’s darshan. Both of us could bow down to
him, stay there for a day or two and return to Kalyan”.
46.
But on that very day, in the civil court in Thane, a case
was scheduled for hearing. Therefore he had to give up the
trip in his company.
47.
Nanasaheb coaxed him. “Come along. Baba is great. He will
fulfil your desire for darshan. The case is a trivial
matter”.
48. But, how could he be convinced? He was afraid of missing the
date for the hearing. How could he avoid these futile visits,
which heaven had destined for him!
49.
Nanasaheb Chandorkar told him of previous experiences of
other people about how their desire for darshan was always
fulfilled and the difficulties warded off.
50.
But he could not bring himself to believe. He could not help
his own nature. He said: “First, let the worry get off my
mind. Let the suit get over fast”.
51.
So be it. He then proceeded to Thane while
Chandorkar left for Shirdi. When he returned
after the darshan, something wonderful had
happened here.
52.
Though he was present at the appointed time, the
case was postponed. He had also missed going
along with Chandorkar and thus he was full of
regrets.
Nanasaheb
Chandorkar
53.
He wished that he had believed in him. Chandorkar would have
taken him along with himself and he would have had darshan
peacefully at Shirdi.
54.
The case remained where it was and he had lost the chance to
see a saint! Therefore, on the spur of the moment, he
decided to go to Shirdi.
55.
He thought that perhaps when he reached Shirdi if he was
lucky he would be able to meet Nana and he would take him to
Sainath personally. Then, he would be very happy.
56.
‘I do not know anybody in Shirdi. I will be a complete
stranger there. If I meet Nana it will be beneficial to me,
though it is a remote possibility.’
57.
Thinking thus, he boarded the train and reached Shirdi the
next day. Of course, Nana was not there.
58.
The day he left for his trip was the day when Nana had left
Shirdi. By this he was disheartened and felt great
disappointment.
59.
So be it. He met another friend, a nice man, who took him
for Sai’s darshan and fulfilled his wish.
60.
The moment he set his eyes on him, he was overwhelmed with
faith and he prostrated himself. The whole body had goose
pimples and tears of love flowed from his eyes.
61.
While he was thus standing, hear carefully what Baba said to
him with a smile of understanding, as he was omniscient.
62.
“The path of this place is not so easy as the teachings of
the Kanarese Appa or even as the buffalo ride in the ghats.
There is no alternative but to put in your best exertions”.
63.
When he heard these significant words, he was overwhelmed
with emotions and realised that the words of the holy man
whom he had met previously had proved correct.
64.
Then he folded his hands together and put his head at the
feet of Sai. He said: “Have mercy on me, Sainatha. Accept me
an orphan, at your feet.
65.
You alone are my great saint and guardian. Today I have
fully understood the teachings in the book of Nischal with
all its significance and divine meaning”.
66.
Where’s Vadgaon and where’s Shirdi! What a union of spirits
of the great saints! How brief, yet enlightening, is their
speech! What a magnificent method of instruction!
67.
One advised reading a book and predicted a meeting with a
great saint, who would give upadesh and advise further
growth.
68.
By Grace of God, he has been met, and he had indicated that
he is the concerned person by significant words. The book
has been read but now it must be put into practice.
69.
Then Sainath said to him: “Whatever Appa has told you is
correct. But when you put it into practice, then only your
wishes will be fulfilled”.
70.
‘Nischal Das’ ‘Vichar Sagar’ was mentioned in Vadgaon. Some
time, after repeated readings, and after a certain lapse of
time, how to put it in practice was taught in Shirdi.
71.
First you must read the book carefully, then ponder upon it.
With repeated readings, it will lead to total absorption in
the subject.
72.
Just reading is not enough. It should be put into practice.
Otherwise, it is like water on a duck’s back2.
73.
Mere reading is a waste of time till the meaning is not
experienced, for which the blessings of a Guru, who has the
knowledge of the Brahman, is required. Mere bookish
knowledge is futile.
74.
A simple story depicting the meaning will bring out the
importance of faith, which is most essential for attaining
the goals of life. Listeners should listen to it for their
benefit.
75.
Once a resident of Pune, whose name was Anantrao Patankar,
who had developed respect for Sai’s darshan, came to Shirdi
soon.
76.
He had heard all the Vedas and read the original Upanishads,
along with the commentaries; but his mind remained always
restless and peace of mind eluded him.
77.
When he had taken Sai Samartha’s darshan, Patankar’s eyes
were rewarded. After bowing down at his feet he worshipped
him with ritualistic accuracy.
78.
Afterwards, with folded hands, he sat in front of Baba, very
close to him. Anantrao, who looked very lovingly, asked him
with extreme humility:
79.
“I have read many books, including the Vedas, the Vedangas
and the Upanishads. I have listened to the holy Shastras and
Puranas. Yet, why is my mind so despondent?
80.
I now feel that whatever I have read has been wasted. I
think that even the illiterate devout devotee is better off
than me.
81.
All my study of books, learning of Shastras is a waste. All
this bookish knowledge is futile as long as my mind remains
unsteady.
82.
Oh how empty is the effort I have made over the study of
etymology; to what purpose is the japa and mantra which does
not give peace of mind! How will I then ever acquire the
knowledge of Brahman?
83.
By word of mouth I have heard that by Sai’s darshan all
worries are removed and that you show the right direction
even in your humorous talk, very easily.
84.
Therefore, Maharaj, treasure trove of austerities, I have
reached your feet. Give me your blessings, by which I may
have peace of mind.”
85.
Upon which, Maharaj told him a humorous parable by which
Anantrao was satisfied and enjoyed the fulfilment of his
learning.
86.
Those few words are the entire essence of knowledge. I will
tell you that story. Be ready to hear it. It is humorous but
meaningful. Who can disregard such words?
87.
Baba said, in reply: “Once a merchant came along and at that
time a horse passed nine balls of stool in front of him.
88.
The merchant was very efficient. He immediately took off his
wrap, and spread it out, collected all the balls and tied a
knot and was able to achieve concentration of mind.”
89.
‘What has Sai Samartha said? What could be its meaning? Why
the collection of the stool by the merchant?’ He did not
understand anything.
90.
Thinking thus, Anantrao came back and related the
conversation, from the beginning to the end, to Kelkar3.
91.
And said: “Who was the merchant? What was the purpose of
those balls of stool? Why was number nine mentioned? Please
reveal the meaning to me.
92.
Dada, what kind of riddle is this? I find myself incompetent
to solve it. Tell me something which will open Baba’s heart
clearly to me, in plain words.”
93.
Dada said: “I too, do not understand. Baba’s talk is always
of this kind. But I will tell you whatever I am enable to
understand, as he inspires me.
94.
The horse is God’s Grace. This is how the puzzle of the
nine-fold devotion could be explained. Without devotion one
cannot have a union with God and knowledge will not be
acquired.
95.
1) Listening 2) Singing the Lord’s praises aloud 3)
Remembering Lord Vishnu 4) Serving at His Feet 5) Offering
prayers 6) Bowing down before Him 7) Being humble 8)
Developing affection and 9) Surrendering the atma – these
are the nine ways of devotion.
96.
With full faith, even if one of these ways of devotion is
practised, Sree Hari who longs for devotion will appear in
the home of the devotee.
97.
Chanting of the Lord’s Name, practise of austerities,
keeping of vows, practising yoga, learning of Vedas and
Upanishads, abundance of metaphysical knowledge and its
various explanations – all this is a sham without faith.
98.
There is no need to be well-versed in the Vedas nor any need
to be famous as a scholar. It is neither necessary to sing
the praises of God without feeling. Only the loving
sentiment of devotion is essential.
99.
Consider yourself to be the merchant and grasp the
significance of that transaction. When the flag of devotion,
in the form of the nine-fold Bhakti, flies high, then the
Incarnation of Knowledge will be pleased.
100. When the horse passed the nine balls of stool, the merchant
eagerly went forward to collect them. Similarly the ninefold
devotion, when adopted, gives complete peace of mind.
101. Only that will give stability to the mind, develop affection
for every being, for which seriousness of mind is necessary.
Otherwise waywardness is inevitable. This is what Gururaya
said, with love”.
102. Next day, when Anantrao went to bow down at Sai’s feet, he
was asked: “Did you gather up the balls of stool?”
103. Anantrao then prayed: “Have mercy on this humble devotee.
Then they would be collected effortlessly. Otherwise can one
gather such great objects easily?”
104. Then Baba blessed him and assured him with the words “May
there be well-being”. Anantrao was pleased and enjoyed
bliss.
105. Now another short story. Listen to it respectfully. You will
come to know about Baba’s omniscience and his endeavour to
guide towards the divine path.
106. Once a lawyer came and went to the Masjid, the moment he
arrived. He took Sainath’s darshan and bowed down at his
feet.
107. He then gave dakshina, without being asked, and went and sat
near by. He felt like listening to Sai’s conversation, with
respect.
108. Baba, then, turned his face and uttered words which were
meant for the lawyer. The words pierced his heart and the
lawyer was repentant.
109.“What frauds people are! They touch my feet, offer dakshina
also, and abuse me in the heart of hearts. How queer are
their ways!”
110. Having heard this, the lawyer kept quiet. But he fully
understood the significance. He realised that the words were
meant for him only. The essence of the words penetrated deep
into his mind.
111. Later on when he went to the wada, he told Dixit that Baba’s
cutting words had hurt him but they were true.
112.“As soon as I arrived, he fired me. But that was a kind of
warning to me that I should never indulge in mocking or
backbiting anybody.
113. As our Munsif was not keeping good health and he was
restless, he took leave from the office and stayed on
peacefully here to improve his health.
114. While we were in the chamber of the lawyers, the discussion
turned around the Munsif and though we were not directly
concerned, conjectures were made.
115. ‘Without medication, just by following Sai, can the physical
ailments be cured? Does it befit him who has risen to the
status of a Munsif (to behave in this superstitious way).’
116. While he was being thus reviled, Sai was also belittled. I
was also party to a small extent to all this and that fault
of mine was pointed out (by Baba).
117. It was not a scolding but a blessing in itself. One should
not unnecessarily participate in useless discussion, malign
or criticise others and pass bitter remarks behind the backs
of people and should refrain from indulging in these bad
4
habits.”
118. Besides, this is proof that even if there is a distance of a
hundred koss, Sai is omniscient and knows the heart of every
person.
119. Moreover, one more matter became clear that intervening
hills and mountains could not hide anything from Sai.
Securely hidden secrets were all open to him.
120. Be it so. From that day onwards, the lawyer decided that in
future he would never criticise or utter ill words. That was
his vow.
121. ‘Wherever and whatever one does, cannot remain unknown to
Sai’, became a firm conviction. The bad habit was given up.
122. He became conscious of doing good deeds because he knew that
Sai, as it were, was watching him from all sides and who can
be capable of deceiving Sai? He was thoroughly convinced of
this.
123. Though the story concerns the lawyer, it was meaningful in
all respects, at all times, and for everybody!
124. The lawyers, the listeners, the speakers and all the
devotees of Sai should also take the same vow. I truly pray
thus.
125. When the cloud of Sai’s Grace showers upon us all, we will
be contented. There is no doubt about this. All those who
are thirsty will quench their thirst.
126. Inexplicable is Sainath’s greatness; unfathomable is the
meaning of his stories; boundless are the limits of his
biography. He is the incarnation of the Supreme Brahman.
127. Now listen to the story in the next chapter, oh you
listeners who have faith, with respect. It will fulfil your
desires and give peace of mind.
128. Sai Samartha knows the future miseries in the lives of his
devotees. He wards them off casually, joking and laughing,
in the course of a light conversation.
129. The devotee Hemad surrenders to Sai. Now the present
narration is complete. The next story deals with the removal
of the difficulties of the devotees.
130. How Sai, the ocean of compassion, is aware of the terrible
difficulties to befall his devotees in the future and how he
removes them by giving a timely warning.
May there be well-being! This is the end of the twenty-first
chapter, of Sree Sai Samartha Satcharita, written by the devotee
Hemadpant, impelled by Saints and virtuous people, called
“Bestowing Grace”.
This is offered to Sree Sadguru Sainath.
May there be auspiciousness!
Notes :
1.
This is the translation in Hindi of the Panchadasi, done in the
year 1849. It has been also translated in other languages.
2.
In Marathi the proverb says “It is like pouring water
on an overturned pot, with its mouth down”.
3.
Ganesh Damodar Kelkar alias Dada Kelkar.
4.
Mathurdas from Anjanvel often came for Maharaj’s
darshan. In Shirdi, he stayed with a caterer named
Sagun. Once while Sagun and Mathurdas were chatting,
there was criticism about some people. Thereafter,
Mathurdas went to Maharaj. After he sat down, Maharaj
asked him immediately “What did Sagun say?” Mathurdas
was ashamed and realised that whatever talk took place
with Sagun was not approved by Maharaj. Mathurdas learnt
the lesson never to criticise anyone nor to listen to
such talk.
Bestowing Grace
I bow down to Sree Ganesh
I bow down to Sree Saraswati
I bow down to the *XU.
I bow down to the Family Deity
I bow down to Sree Sita-Ramachandra
I bow down to Sree SadJXU.
Sainath.
1.
At the end of the last chapter, we mentioned about how
Thakur and others had darshan of a great person. Listen to
the story attentively now.
2.
Wasted are the words of a speaker if by listening to them, a
listener is not affected and does not show the sign that he
is overwhelmed with emotions and gets goose pimples.
3.
A narration is worthless if the listeners are not in an
ecstasy, not choked with emotions and if their eyes are not
filled with tears of happiness.
4.
Baba’s speech was captivating. His style of teaching
exceptionally good. His arguments were unique. I lay my head
at his feet who reveals something new at every step.
5.
One can never be able to meet a holy man till fortune smiles
on him. Even if such a person is very close, a sinful person
is unable to discover him.
6.
There is no need to go far to find proof of this axiom
because I am going to tell you about my own experience.
7.
There was a famous saint called Pir Maulana who was residing
at Bandra. Hindus, Parsis and learned men from other
religions used to come to take the darshan of that pure
soul.
8.
I was a magistrate of that place. His Mujawar by name Inus,
tried indefatigably to persuade me to come for darshan.
9.
‘Thousands of people come there. Why should I go there on
account of the pressure, and spoil my name?’
10.
Some such thoughts came to me, and I never went for the
darshan. I was, as it were, afraid of my own shadow and
somehow ill-luck came in the way.
11.
Many years passed. Thereafter I was transferred from there.
Later, when the opportune time came I became attached to
Shirdi, for all times.
12.
In short, the unfortunate can never reach the vicinity of
the saints. This most difficult of meetings can be
accomplished only by God’s Grace.
13.
Now listen to a pleasing story about this. There are from
times unknown such secret arrangements of saints, and they
go on carrying their mission, while the world is unaware of
it.
14.
As time flows, the saints choose the place of their liking
and appear in human form, to fulfil some mission. But, in
reality, they are not different from one another.
15.
The place – time – person, though different, a saint
realises the essence of the personality of other saints.
They are all united inwardly, as they are only one,
16.
like the outposts of an emperor situated at different
places, with officers in charge to look after the population
and its prosperity.
17.
Similarly, the emperor of boundless happiness manifests at
different places and controls the invisible reins of his own
empire.
18.
Once, a certain gentleman, who had the privilege of an
education in English, holding a Bachelor of Arts degree,
climbed step by step and became a big officer.
19.
Later on, he became a Mamlatdar and then rose to be an
Assistant Collector. Because of good fortune, he came in
contact with Sai Baba.
20.
Outwardly these posts look very attractive, like mountains
from a distance, but if you go nearer to them, they are
found surrounded by trees which give an itch. But at the
same time these posts command prestige.
21.
Those pleasant days are long past when people used to crave
for such posts. The general public, too, honoured the
officers and mutually they were happy.
22.
Let us now talk about present conditions. Gone are those
days when it was nice to be in Government Service. Now the
responsibilities have increased and the emoluments are
insufficient.
23.
In the olden times, the Mamlatdar was respected and the
Collector was honoured. But that grandeur is no more though
one works hard.
24.
Be it so. After all, by spending a lot of money on education
and after studying very hard, one was able to acquire these
high posts.
25.
First of all, one had to pass the Bachelor of Arts degree;
then become a clerk in the government office; earn a monthly
salary of Rs. 30/-. In this manner, one had to go on fo-. In this manner, one had to go on for
some time.
26.
During the course of time, he had to go to the ghats, learn
the surveyors work and live amongst them, measure lands and
pass departmental exams.
27.
Later on, if a higher official in the service died leaving
his position vacant, then he would be able to get that post.
28.
Enough of this lengthy and uninteresting narration. Why
should I go on prattling about it unnecessarily? Listen to
that story about how such a person met Sai.
29.
Near Belgaum, there is a town called Vadgaon. A team of
surveyors had camped there.
30.
In this town, there was a saint staying there. They went to
take his darshan, bowed their heads at his feet and received
his blessings.
31.
That holy person was holding a book called ‘Vichar Sagar’ by
Nischal Das1, which he was reading to them.
32.
After a while, when these people started to take his leave,
the saint spoke to that particular gentleman with great
delight. Listen to that.
33.
“You may leave now. But be sure to read this book, by which
your wishes will come true. Bear this in mind.
34.
Later on, in the course of your work, when you go towards
the north, because of your good fortune you will have the
darshan of a great man on the way.
35.
He will show you the path, further on, and will grant you
peace of mind. He will give you advice and impress upon you
the knowledge of the Self.”
36.
The work there was completed; and he was transferred to
Junnar. On the way to Junnar, he had to cross the Nane Ghat,
which was a big obstacle.
37.
The road was very formidable and could be traversed only on
the back of a he-buffalo, which was the only means of
transport. So a buffalo was brought for him to ride on.
38.
Later on, the man may become a senior official and may get
horses and carriages. But, presently, he had to satisfy
himself with a buffalo. There was no choice.
39.
It was impossible to climb the ghat on foot. There was no
other convenient transport. Such was the speciality of the
Nane Ghat. Thus the conveyance was really unusual.
40.
So he took the decision, and a buffalo was made ready. It
was saddled and with great difficulty he mounted on it.
41.
Though he did mount it, there was a steep climb. The vehicle
being, of all things, a buffalo, he was reduced to swinging
and swaying and he developed a pain in the back.
42.
So be it. The journey ended. The Junnar mission was
completed. He got a transfer order and he moved from there.
43.
He was transferred to Kalyan, where he made the acquaintance
of Chandorkar and heard of Sainath’s fame. A desire arose to
have his darshan.
44.
That chance came the very next day because Chandorkar was
planning a trip to Shirdi. He said to him “Accompany me on
this pilgrimage to Shirdi.
45.
Let us take Baba’s darshan. Both of us could bow down to
him, stay there for a day or two and return to Kalyan”.
46.
But on that very day, in the civil court in Thane, a case
was scheduled for hearing. Therefore he had to give up the
trip in his company.
47.
Nanasaheb coaxed him. “Come along. Baba is great. He will
fulfil your desire for darshan. The case is a trivial
matter”.
48. But, how could he be convinced? He was afraid of missing the
date for the hearing. How could he avoid these futile visits,
which heaven had destined for him!
49.
Nanasaheb Chandorkar told him of previous experiences of
other people about how their desire for darshan was always
fulfilled and the difficulties warded off.
50.
But he could not bring himself to believe. He could not help
his own nature. He said: “First, let the worry get off my
mind. Let the suit get over fast”.
51.
So be it. He then proceeded to Thane while
Chandorkar left for Shirdi. When he returned
after the darshan, something wonderful had
happened here.
52.
Though he was present at the appointed time, the
case was postponed. He had also missed going
along with Chandorkar and thus he was full of
regrets.
Nanasaheb
Chandorkar
53.
He wished that he had believed in him. Chandorkar would have
taken him along with himself and he would have had darshan
peacefully at Shirdi.
54.
The case remained where it was and he had lost the chance to
see a saint! Therefore, on the spur of the moment, he
decided to go to Shirdi.
55.
He thought that perhaps when he reached Shirdi if he was
lucky he would be able to meet Nana and he would take him to
Sainath personally. Then, he would be very happy.
56.
‘I do not know anybody in Shirdi. I will be a complete
stranger there. If I meet Nana it will be beneficial to me,
though it is a remote possibility.’
57.
Thinking thus, he boarded the train and reached Shirdi the
next day. Of course, Nana was not there.
58.
The day he left for his trip was the day when Nana had left
Shirdi. By this he was disheartened and felt great
disappointment.
59.
So be it. He met another friend, a nice man, who took him
for Sai’s darshan and fulfilled his wish.
60.
The moment he set his eyes on him, he was overwhelmed with
faith and he prostrated himself. The whole body had goose
pimples and tears of love flowed from his eyes.
61.
While he was thus standing, hear carefully what Baba said to
him with a smile of understanding, as he was omniscient.
62.
“The path of this place is not so easy as the teachings of
the Kanarese Appa or even as the buffalo ride in the ghats.
There is no alternative but to put in your best exertions”.
63.
When he heard these significant words, he was overwhelmed
with emotions and realised that the words of the holy man
whom he had met previously had proved correct.
64.
Then he folded his hands together and put his head at the
feet of Sai. He said: “Have mercy on me, Sainatha. Accept me
an orphan, at your feet.
65.
You alone are my great saint and guardian. Today I have
fully understood the teachings in the book of Nischal with
all its significance and divine meaning”.
66.
Where’s Vadgaon and where’s Shirdi! What a union of spirits
of the great saints! How brief, yet enlightening, is their
speech! What a magnificent method of instruction!
67.
One advised reading a book and predicted a meeting with a
great saint, who would give upadesh and advise further
growth.
68.
By Grace of God, he has been met, and he had indicated that
he is the concerned person by significant words. The book
has been read but now it must be put into practice.
69.
Then Sainath said to him: “Whatever Appa has told you is
correct. But when you put it into practice, then only your
wishes will be fulfilled”.
70.
‘Nischal Das’ ‘Vichar Sagar’ was mentioned in Vadgaon. Some
time, after repeated readings, and after a certain lapse of
time, how to put it in practice was taught in Shirdi.
71.
First you must read the book carefully, then ponder upon it.
With repeated readings, it will lead to total absorption in
the subject.
72.
Just reading is not enough. It should be put into practice.
Otherwise, it is like water on a duck’s back2.
73.
Mere reading is a waste of time till the meaning is not
experienced, for which the blessings of a Guru, who has the
knowledge of the Brahman, is required. Mere bookish
knowledge is futile.
74.
A simple story depicting the meaning will bring out the
importance of faith, which is most essential for attaining
the goals of life. Listeners should listen to it for their
benefit.
75.
Once a resident of Pune, whose name was Anantrao Patankar,
who had developed respect for Sai’s darshan, came to Shirdi
soon.
76.
He had heard all the Vedas and read the original Upanishads,
along with the commentaries; but his mind remained always
restless and peace of mind eluded him.
77.
When he had taken Sai Samartha’s darshan, Patankar’s eyes
were rewarded. After bowing down at his feet he worshipped
him with ritualistic accuracy.
78.
Afterwards, with folded hands, he sat in front of Baba, very
close to him. Anantrao, who looked very lovingly, asked him
with extreme humility:
79.
“I have read many books, including the Vedas, the Vedangas
and the Upanishads. I have listened to the holy Shastras and
Puranas. Yet, why is my mind so despondent?
80.
I now feel that whatever I have read has been wasted. I
think that even the illiterate devout devotee is better off
than me.
81.
All my study of books, learning of Shastras is a waste. All
this bookish knowledge is futile as long as my mind remains
unsteady.
82.
Oh how empty is the effort I have made over the study of
etymology; to what purpose is the japa and mantra which does
not give peace of mind! How will I then ever acquire the
knowledge of Brahman?
83.
By word of mouth I have heard that by Sai’s darshan all
worries are removed and that you show the right direction
even in your humorous talk, very easily.
84.
Therefore, Maharaj, treasure trove of austerities, I have
reached your feet. Give me your blessings, by which I may
have peace of mind.”
85.
Upon which, Maharaj told him a humorous parable by which
Anantrao was satisfied and enjoyed the fulfilment of his
learning.
86.
Those few words are the entire essence of knowledge. I will
tell you that story. Be ready to hear it. It is humorous but
meaningful. Who can disregard such words?
87.
Baba said, in reply: “Once a merchant came along and at that
time a horse passed nine balls of stool in front of him.
88.
The merchant was very efficient. He immediately took off his
wrap, and spread it out, collected all the balls and tied a
knot and was able to achieve concentration of mind.”
89.
‘What has Sai Samartha said? What could be its meaning? Why
the collection of the stool by the merchant?’ He did not
understand anything.
90.
Thinking thus, Anantrao came back and related the
conversation, from the beginning to the end, to Kelkar3.
91.
And said: “Who was the merchant? What was the purpose of
those balls of stool? Why was number nine mentioned? Please
reveal the meaning to me.
92.
Dada, what kind of riddle is this? I find myself incompetent
to solve it. Tell me something which will open Baba’s heart
clearly to me, in plain words.”
93.
Dada said: “I too, do not understand. Baba’s talk is always
of this kind. But I will tell you whatever I am enable to
understand, as he inspires me.
94.
The horse is God’s Grace. This is how the puzzle of the
nine-fold devotion could be explained. Without devotion one
cannot have a union with God and knowledge will not be
acquired.
95.
1) Listening 2) Singing the Lord’s praises aloud 3)
Remembering Lord Vishnu 4) Serving at His Feet 5) Offering
prayers 6) Bowing down before Him 7) Being humble 8)
Developing affection and 9) Surrendering the atma – these
are the nine ways of devotion.
96.
With full faith, even if one of these ways of devotion is
practised, Sree Hari who longs for devotion will appear in
the home of the devotee.
97.
Chanting of the Lord’s Name, practise of austerities,
keeping of vows, practising yoga, learning of Vedas and
Upanishads, abundance of metaphysical knowledge and its
various explanations – all this is a sham without faith.
98.
There is no need to be well-versed in the Vedas nor any need
to be famous as a scholar. It is neither necessary to sing
the praises of God without feeling. Only the loving
sentiment of devotion is essential.
99.
Consider yourself to be the merchant and grasp the
significance of that transaction. When the flag of devotion,
in the form of the nine-fold Bhakti, flies high, then the
Incarnation of Knowledge will be pleased.
100. When the horse passed the nine balls of stool, the merchant
eagerly went forward to collect them. Similarly the ninefold
devotion, when adopted, gives complete peace of mind.
101. Only that will give stability to the mind, develop affection
for every being, for which seriousness of mind is necessary.
Otherwise waywardness is inevitable. This is what Gururaya
said, with love”.
102. Next day, when Anantrao went to bow down at Sai’s feet, he
was asked: “Did you gather up the balls of stool?”
103. Anantrao then prayed: “Have mercy on this humble devotee.
Then they would be collected effortlessly. Otherwise can one
gather such great objects easily?”
104. Then Baba blessed him and assured him with the words “May
there be well-being”. Anantrao was pleased and enjoyed
bliss.
105. Now another short story. Listen to it respectfully. You will
come to know about Baba’s omniscience and his endeavour to
guide towards the divine path.
106. Once a lawyer came and went to the Masjid, the moment he
arrived. He took Sainath’s darshan and bowed down at his
feet.
107. He then gave dakshina, without being asked, and went and sat
near by. He felt like listening to Sai’s conversation, with
respect.
108. Baba, then, turned his face and uttered words which were
meant for the lawyer. The words pierced his heart and the
lawyer was repentant.
109.“What frauds people are! They touch my feet, offer dakshina
also, and abuse me in the heart of hearts. How queer are
their ways!”
110. Having heard this, the lawyer kept quiet. But he fully
understood the significance. He realised that the words were
meant for him only. The essence of the words penetrated deep
into his mind.
111. Later on when he went to the wada, he told Dixit that Baba’s
cutting words had hurt him but they were true.
112.“As soon as I arrived, he fired me. But that was a kind of
warning to me that I should never indulge in mocking or
backbiting anybody.
113. As our Munsif was not keeping good health and he was
restless, he took leave from the office and stayed on
peacefully here to improve his health.
114. While we were in the chamber of the lawyers, the discussion
turned around the Munsif and though we were not directly
concerned, conjectures were made.
115. ‘Without medication, just by following Sai, can the physical
ailments be cured? Does it befit him who has risen to the
status of a Munsif (to behave in this superstitious way).’
116. While he was being thus reviled, Sai was also belittled. I
was also party to a small extent to all this and that fault
of mine was pointed out (by Baba).
117. It was not a scolding but a blessing in itself. One should
not unnecessarily participate in useless discussion, malign
or criticise others and pass bitter remarks behind the backs
of people and should refrain from indulging in these bad
4
habits.”
118. Besides, this is proof that even if there is a distance of a
hundred koss, Sai is omniscient and knows the heart of every
person.
119. Moreover, one more matter became clear that intervening
hills and mountains could not hide anything from Sai.
Securely hidden secrets were all open to him.
120. Be it so. From that day onwards, the lawyer decided that in
future he would never criticise or utter ill words. That was
his vow.
121. ‘Wherever and whatever one does, cannot remain unknown to
Sai’, became a firm conviction. The bad habit was given up.
122. He became conscious of doing good deeds because he knew that
Sai, as it were, was watching him from all sides and who can
be capable of deceiving Sai? He was thoroughly convinced of
this.
123. Though the story concerns the lawyer, it was meaningful in
all respects, at all times, and for everybody!
124. The lawyers, the listeners, the speakers and all the
devotees of Sai should also take the same vow. I truly pray
thus.
125. When the cloud of Sai’s Grace showers upon us all, we will
be contented. There is no doubt about this. All those who
are thirsty will quench their thirst.
126. Inexplicable is Sainath’s greatness; unfathomable is the
meaning of his stories; boundless are the limits of his
biography. He is the incarnation of the Supreme Brahman.
127. Now listen to the story in the next chapter, oh you
listeners who have faith, with respect. It will fulfil your
desires and give peace of mind.
128. Sai Samartha knows the future miseries in the lives of his
devotees. He wards them off casually, joking and laughing,
in the course of a light conversation.
129. The devotee Hemad surrenders to Sai. Now the present
narration is complete. The next story deals with the removal
of the difficulties of the devotees.
130. How Sai, the ocean of compassion, is aware of the terrible
difficulties to befall his devotees in the future and how he
removes them by giving a timely warning.
May there be well-being! This is the end of the twenty-first
chapter, of Sree Sai Samartha Satcharita, written by the devotee
Hemadpant, impelled by Saints and virtuous people, called
“Bestowing Grace”.
This is offered to Sree Sadguru Sainath.
May there be auspiciousness!
Notes :
1.
This is the translation in Hindi of the Panchadasi, done in the
year 1849. It has been also translated in other languages.
2.
In Marathi the proverb says “It is like pouring water
on an overturned pot, with its mouth down”.
3.
Ganesh Damodar Kelkar alias Dada Kelkar.
4.
Mathurdas from Anjanvel often came for Maharaj’s
darshan. In Shirdi, he stayed with a caterer named
Sagun. Once while Sagun and Mathurdas were chatting,
there was criticism about some people. Thereafter,
Mathurdas went to Maharaj. After he sat down, Maharaj
asked him immediately “What did Sagun say?” Mathurdas
was ashamed and realised that whatever talk took place
with Sagun was not approved by Maharaj. Mathurdas learnt
the lesson never to criticise anyone nor to listen to
such talk.
No comments:
Post a Comment