Digital Blackboard - September 24, 2004

The distinctions such as "I am a separate entity," "you exist separately," and "the world stands distinctly apart from me," have been drawn and maintained by all. These distinctions persist because the feeling on which they are based is not easily snapped off. What is discrimination after all? We say that there is one Self existing in everyone and yet still, we continue to make distinctions. This is called discrimination and it exists solely in the mind.

The waking state is so named because in it attributes, or qualities are kindled, or awake. This itself is called the world, as the whole world revolves around these attributes. Give up all previous traditions and prior practices, thereby stamping out the ego born of them. Only then is the waking state destroyed.

All that happens according to our wishes is termed good and that which is against our wishes is termed bad. Good and bad are only concepts. In order to root out the ego, one must enlist the help of the intellect, and dedicate everything at the feet of the Master. Surrender yourself along with the body, mind and wealth at the Master’s feet. When "I" do not exist, the question of "mine" does not arise. If we claim that all this is mine, body consciousness comes to the forefront. If we rest for a while at an inn, does any pride for the inn haunt us? No, never. One should behave in a similar fashion with regard to the body and everyday life.

"I" (ego), and "mine" (attachment), are two demons that haunt us in this world. They have smothered the Self. He alone, who has freed himself from the clutches of "I" and "mine," is truly fortunate. To achieve this, one should behave as if the Sadguru is the owner of all. It is very difficult to give up I and mine, as it requires gigantic effort. To get rid of I and mine, say that, "I am everywhere, in all." By behaving in this manner, one will give up the attachment to the body. If one cannot do this, then one should surrender everything to the Master. It should be understood that he who is prone to discrimination is not truly devoted to his Master, or rather, has not yet gained Knowledge.

One who has become conversant with the knowledge of Brahman, and has yet not got over the habit of discriminating, his deeds are futile, and all of his knowledge is in vain. One who has not got over pride may appear to be in the waking state, but in reality, he is fast asleep in ignorance. Everybody strives to inflate their pride. Nobody ever tries to be rid of it. One who is swollen with pride raves on like a madman in a manner similar to a person who has consumed the datura seed.

One who has not gotten over the habit of drawing distinctions, does not derive the real benefit from the Vedas and various other scriptures. One should carefully consider as to how far he has succeeded in giving up pride and curbing body awareness. You cannot acquire the Ultimate Truth unless you give up your habit of differentiating. Full faith in the Master helps one break down the bonds and ties that have risen as a result of pride. It is only when one surrenders at the feet of the Master that one is blessed with grace, or true understanding, and it is this understanding that helps one to be rid of pride. Complete devotion to the Master puts one on the right path. The main point is that discrimination along with pride is totally wiped off only when one surrenders entirely to the Master. I bow to the Master who is fully realized; "OM Namah Siddham."

Shri Siddharameshwar Maharaj - From a talk given June 25, 1933