From a satsang with Pt. Umadutt Maharaj, Spiritual Leader, SWAHA Bhakti Jyot Mandali
In the journey of life, the road to success is constructed not by external forces, but by the condition and power of our own minds. The ancient wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita clarifies this truth in Chapter 6, Verse 5, teaching us that elevation and degradation come from within; we are our own best friends or worst enemies, depending on how we manage our minds. This principle of self-reliance and internal strength is a beacon for those seeking to navigate the complexities of existence with grace and success.
As we celebrate Hanuman Jayanti, it is a momentous occasion to reflect on the profound significance of the mind’s power, epitomised by the venerable Shree Hanumanji. Revered for his unwavering devotion and formidable strength, he embodies the disciplined mind, fully absorbed in the divine love for Shree Raam, illustrating the pinnacle of spiritual and temporal success one can achieve through mental fortitude and divine contemplation.
The Patanjali Yoga Sutras categorise the mind into five distinct states: the scattered (kshiptam), the dull (mudham), the distracted (vikshiptam), the concentrated (ekaagra), and the controlled (niruddha). This framework offers a roadmap for our journey toward mental mastery, encouraging a transition from a state of distraction to one of unwavering focus and control. As we delve into the essence of Hanuman Jayanti, let us pledge to harness our minds’ potential through steadfast devotion and discipline, aspiring to the one-pointed concentration exemplified by Hanumanji.
The pathway to this elevated state of being is illuminated by the practice of devotion, the very core of Hanumanji’s existence. Shree Raam extols the virtue of satsang, the association with the virtuous, as the foundational step in the devotee’s journey. It is in the company of the good and the godly that the mind finds its true purpose and strength, glorifying the divine and attaining unparalleled happiness.
In this era, marked by transient joys and sorrows, the wisdom of turning inward has never been more pertinent. The ongoing challenges of life underscore the impermanence of the external world and highlight the eternal truth residing within us. By inviting the divine into the temple of our minds and hearts, we open ourselves to the enduring bliss and tranquillity that comes from spiritual communion.
The disciplined mind, as represented by Hanuman Baba, is not merely an ideal but a practical tool for navigating life’s trials and advancing on the spiritual path. Worship of Hanumanji, especially on the auspicious occasion of Hanuman Jayanti, fortifies our minds, enabling us to transcend obstacles with the same agility and devotion that defined his service to Shree Raam.
As we observe Hanuman Jayanti, let us embrace the teachings of Shree Hanumanji, making a solemn vow to enhance the quality of our lives through the power of the mind. By chanting the divine names, performing our duties with dedication and seeking solace in devotion, we too can achieve a state of divine consciousness, walking steadfastly in the footsteps of Hanumanji, the embodiment of disciplined devotion and mental strength.
