Monday, 04 November 2019
Can one be
scientific and yet spiritual?
Approaching realities of life and study of nature in
an open-minded way, Swami Vivekananda divined that for meaningful existence the
task before man is wider then mere controlling our outer nature. He places
before mankind an ampler and bolder perspective of life which respects both
science and religion as instruments for working out the total emancipation of
man. For solving the problems of existence, for attuning the liberation of the spirit
of self-fulfilment, in an age dominated by science, it will be difficult to get
better directive principles then those which are to be found in these works of
Vivekananda.
The goal of religion, according to Swami Vivekananda
“is to manifest the Divine within by controlling Nature external and internal “and
be free”
There are scientists who try to ignore the spiritual
phenomenon for the simple reason that they are unprepared to undergo the
disciplines required for comprehending it. Swami Vivekananda calls them “surface
scientists” for it is not the sign of a candid or scientific mind to throw overboard
anything without proper investigation.
Again, there are religious people who show
less than due regard to knowledge of science and its very important role in
affairs of men, simply because they are not psychologically prepared to discipline
their minds in a scientific way. These people who may be called surface spirituals
, are slow to see the point that if, according to them everything happens
according to the will of God, the may be God is well pleased that science is
dealing some hard blows on theological superstations of ages! If God is Truth ,
and if the scientist is seeking this truth, forgetful of God in a formal way
yet he will be spiritual.
“What is truth? Truth is something so noble that if
God could turn aside from it, I could keep the truth and let God go
said Mester Eckhart. Here is a truly spiritual man whom even the most
self-satisfied scientist can respect.
Hold That Outburst
The Speaking Tree |
India, Spirituality | ET
By Om Swami
A series of right actions eventually come around to
insulate you from the undesirable situations and events in life. Good thoughts,
words and actions culminate to become your shield. It’s not that life will stop
shooting arrows, but you are protected.
And, I think most people can see the value in this
strategy: postpone your unkind actions and do the kind ones with a sense of
urgency. The issue, perhaps, is not in understanding but execution.
That is, how do we ensure we remember this when we
are mad with anger and all wisdom is heading south? Temptations, habits, urges
and our automatic responses trigger forgetfulness.
A fit of rage scares and flees the goodness out of
us like a loud clap does to birds. How do you ensure that the mindfulness
required to deliver a measured and delayed response stays with you when we need
it the most?
First, of course, is the practice of mindfulness
itself, which is cultivated by repeatedly bringing your awareness to the
present moment. Two simple questions will do it for you: (a) what am I doing
right now, and (b) what should I be doing in the present moment?
Second, even more importantly, a conducive
environment is critical to the practice of mindfulness and kindness. Put
yourself in the right environment and watch the miracle of mindfulness unfold
effortlessly.
Our handling of any situation depends primarily on
two things: our view of life and our habits. Achange in these brings an
automatic shift in our feelings, reactions and comebacks. Always postpone an
outburst. Never delay a good deed.
DISCLAIMER : Views expressed above are the author's
own.
But, if He exists?
I drive joy There was a doctor in Benaras who spent 7
minutes in the morning and evening for mediation on God. Knowing this, his
colleagues and friends laughed at him. One day they argued that he was wasting
ten precious minutes on something, which he had been misled into believing. The
doctor replied, “Well, if God does not exist, I agree that I am wasting ten
minutes a day. But, if He exists? I am afraid you are wasting your entire
lifetime. I prefer to waste ten minutes rather than a lifetime. Why should you
grudge me the 10 minutes joy that I derive 4m.
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