Science of Spirituality
Theoretical discussion on happiness and
unhappiness
according to various
philosophies
Continued from the previous issue
How to acquire at least a small amount of true happiness
Man cannot acquire happiness through modernization that is based on worldly science and research, though the aim of modernization is to improve the quality of life. It is impossible for a living being that becomes happy with happiness, to be happy when suffering comes. The following paths indicate how to acquire true happiness (Bliss) at least to some extent.
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Devotion with expectation (sakam bhakti) (See Issue 17, Principles of Spirituality) The universe is within the control of the deities or divine energies. If the deities are appeased, they endow happiness, but if displeased, they bestow unhappiness. One can please them through devotion and thus attain happiness. Many times we witness that when a person in need turns to God, his wishes are fulfilled. We also notice that generally, a pious person is much more at peace and happy than others, who are not so pious.
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The company of Saints
a) In the company of an evildoer an individual begins to consider unhappiness such as stealing, drinking alcohol, etc., as happiness. In the company of a Saint, however, happiness appears like unhappiness. This itself is detachment (vairagya). At this point, one has realized the limitations of worldly happiness and is in pursuit of true happiness or Bliss. Saints destroy the very desire for worldly happiness. In the company of a Saint, due to the acquisition of the strength to endure unhappiness, even unhappiness appears like happiness. Hence, in the company of saints, no unhappiness is felt, only Bliss is experienced.b) Just as cancer cells are destroyed with exposure to certain radiation, so also dissolution of the mind and intellect occurs after prolonged exposure to the frequencies of Bliss emanating from a Saint, by remaining in His company for a long time. In other words, in the company of a Saint, the subtle and causal bodies, as well as nescience, are destroyed, and the individual experiences inner Bliss.
Continued in the next issue.
[Reference taken from Vol. 1B – Spirituality, compiled by Dr. Jayant Athavale and Dr. Mrs. Kunda Athavale.]
*If one is not currently doing any spiritual practice, or to complement one's current spiritual practice, one can begin with the simple, but powerful spiritual practice of chanting or constantly remembering God's Name according to one's religion. Chanting also acts as a useful complement to any spiritual path one may be already following. It is a practice recommended for the current times by Holy texts and Saints of all religions.
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To begin with, one can repeat God's Name according to their religion (refer to Issue 3 Clarification of Doubts section for a list of God's Names as per various religions), or the Name that they feel most comfortable chanting.
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Interested readers can determine the exact chant for them from the experiment given inIssue 124, Message to Seekers section.