Some Essentials For A Spiritual Aspirant.

Last week I received an email from a spiritual aspirant.
He requested I share some valuable tips for progress on the spiritual path.

Well, let me make it clear that the spiritual path is not an easy one. Also, it is not for everyone.

In the contemporary world, one can find umpteen persons claiming themselves to be the messengers of God. But most of them are plain fraudsters.
These very scoundrels have brought disrepute to the ochre robes.

I firmly believe that it is only due to the tendencies and impressions (संस्कार) from the present and past lifetimes that a person gets genuinely attracted to spirituality.

Such an individual feels an intense craving for the Lord.
This craving or pull is also referred to as “The Call Of The Lord” in our scriptures.

So strong is “The Call Of The Lord” that those who experience it renounce their wealth, and family despite the counsels of their friends and relatives.

Prince Siddhartha (Gautam Buddha) renounced his kingdom, family, and luxurious life in search of the Truth.

Many wealthy persons, IAS/IPS officers have renounced their comforts, and worldly positions to become ascetics and yogis.

On the basis of my own spiritual experiences, and interactions with authentic monks, I can say with certitude that it’s extremely difficult to be a monk.

Withdrawing senses from sense objects is no child’s play!

Well, I have found that the following things are absolutely necessary for a budding monk on a spiritual voyage.

Minimum Requirements

Never accumulate more than necessary. This would only bring distractions.
A mind that is constantly worried about paying EMIs for SUVs or safe custody of expensive items, cannot focus on japa and meditation.

Simple Living

Simple living helps one to control their thoughts. With few wants, one has to think little. Fewer the thoughts, the greater the peace.

Cultivate the Habit of Remaining Alone

Expose yourself to aloneness for some hours every day. When one is left alone, one starts introspecting, thinking of higher reality.

I opine that even worldly people should remain absolutely alone for at least an hour every day and cherish their own company.

If one can’t enjoy one’s own company, then how can one expect others to relish it!

Speak Sweet, Speak Less

One should speak only when it’s necessary.
A spiritual aspirant (साधक) must practise long periods of silence (मौन व्रत).

One gains a lot by remaining silent.

Communication is taxing. One spends immense energy communicating one’s thoughts and ideas to others.
By remaining silent, one replenishes and rejuvenates oneself.

Remember, something of sense comes only from silence!

Sanjay Gargish