Guidance from the Guru

(Letter 15)

Swami Tapovan Maharaj

Om Narayana Smriti

Uttarkasi,
17-11-1953

With good wishes.

It is several days since I received your letter here, redirected from Gangotri. So far we have been exchanging letters dealing only in generalities without entering into particulars and so I felt there was no hurry to send a reply. That was one of the causes of the delay.

To get a general idea of mental and physical control, of dispassion, nishkama karma and bhakti, the study of Bhagavad Gita, Yoga Vasishta and other books of the kind will be found very useful. That is why aspirants read them every day. It may be possible to get a general knowledge of the goal by such reading. But it is when men try to put those ideas into practice, that experiences varying from individual to individual, obstacles, oppositions, fears and doubts crop up. A consideration of these phenomena is spoken of as the criticism of particular elements. No detailed discussion is called for with reference to general common aspects. Nobody doubts whether nishkama karma, bhakti and jnana are essential. It is when we come to consider individual cases that difficulties arise. What is the sadhana suited to a particular individual? Even if one of karma, jnana or bhakti is singled out for him, difficulties do not end. Doubts arise for individuals according to their qualifications. To discuss such doubts and resolve individual problems aspirants usually seek the help of Mahatmas.

In these days, especially when there are plenty of opportunities to read this and that, who finds it impossible (if he so desires) to acquire knowledge; general knowledge on temporal and spiritual subjects? It is only when one tries in earnest to translate his ideas into action; he finds mountain-like obstacles standing directly in his way. These obstacles are not uniform nor are they of the same magnitude. Aspirants have to face them and overcome them. Mahatmas who very well know the nature of the aspirants, their peculiarities, their doubts, their defects etc. suggest devices to overcome their difficulties. Aspirants accordingly, perform sadhanas and gradually rise upward thrusting aside their obstructions. Only then there is victory in the realm of spiritual life.

With loving regards,

Swami Tapovanam