Neren’s Spiritual Journey
Note: From time to time, this newsletter presents perspectives from different religions and spiritual practices. This message was submitted by Neren, one of our subscribers in South Africa. In my view, it is important that we learn and understand the views and insights of people from all religions around the world. I welcome submissions from people of all religions.
– Jeff Keller
Neren’s Spiritual Journey
For the past 20 years, I am affiliated with ISKCON – The International Society for Krishna Consciousness. According to the ISKCON web site, “ISKCON’S primary mission is to encourage all members of human society to devote at least some portion of their time and energies to the process of hearing and chanting about God. In this way, they will gradually come to realize that all living beings are spirit souls, eternally related to the Supreme Lord in service and in love.”
This has been my spiritual journey thus far and it has brought so much tranquility and peace of mind. ISKCON focuses on “bhakti yoga” or pure devotional service to the Supreme Lord who we worship as Lord Sri Krishna. The primary method of worship in the initial stages are the chanting of the holy names of God (which is also emphasized in all religions), this in turn gives rise to understanding that God does indeed have a name, form, qualities and pastimes. By us trying to rekindle that lost relationship gives us an opportunity to enter in the spiritual world and join in the activities with the Lord.
Many people are of the opinion or have been taught that God is our order supplier - “God give me this, that and the other;” however we are mainly concerned with how we can establish a better relationship with the Lord without asking for anything material in return. The Lord knows our heart’s desire and will provide accordingly. Like a bird for example, his food is being supplied in some form or the other!
As part of our Daily practices :
• One serious on the path of spiritual life will rise around 4:00 am as this is the best time for spiritual practices.
• We encourage all people to devote some portion of their time to the chanting the names of the Lord at least 2 of 24 hours in a day.
• What do we chant – hare krishna hare krishna krishna krishna hare hare, hare rama hare rama rama rama hare hare
• What does this literally mean – we ask that the Lord continuously bless us in devotional service and that we can engage in His service.
We also ask that the people abstain from :
Meat eating
Gambling
Illicit sex
Intoxication
On the positive side :
• One learns MERCY & COMPASSION for all living entities.
• One learns about being TRUTHFUL
• One learns about PURITY, cleanliness of body, mind and spirit
• No intoxication - leads to AUSTERITY
I am happy and proud to admit that intellectually I have realized that these are bad habits. If I feel pain when pinched, imagine the pain being experienced by someone else. So anyone using logic and intelligence will understand these basic principles and this is what determines a human being from an animal. We as human beings have the intelligence to rationalize between right and wrong. I am glad to have given up on all or most bad habits and that I don’t hurt or kill other living entities at least not intentionally! Being a vegetarian is great and has altered my way of thinking for the better.
Should you have further questions or comments please visit www.ISKCONinSA.co.za to get a broader perspective on the philosophy.
Wishing you the best in your spiritual life,
Neren