We all have divine qualities that help us protect ourselves from the demons within us and outside, writes AJIT KUMAR BISHNOI
In the sixteenth chapter of the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna states that there are two types of persons in this world. These either possess divine qualities or demonic qualities. Every person will have predominance of either of the two. (16.6) We know what divine qualities are: these are non-violence, truthfulness, not given to anger, modesty, etc. (16.2) The demonic qualities are: deceitful behaviour, arrogance, anger, etc. (16.4) Demons, having little intelligence, take birth to cause harm to the world. (16.9)
So, we, having divine qualities, must protect ourselves from these demonic characters. Consider what happened during the Mahabharat era. Evil forces led by Duryodhan and company came to power. Pandavas — the rightful occupants of the throne were ousted. In the same period, Kansa — a demon was wrecking havoc on good people and there was no check on him. God incarnated as Lord Krishna and set the matter right. However, God does not incarnate so frequently. Then, what are we to do? In the present times, many despots have managed to take control of their nations. What should their citizens do? Good people in these countries must come together to protect themselves, and, if possible, bring change in the government as and when there is a opportune moment.
Let me explain this philosophy of coming together. I will cite my own example. I don’t like many things which happen in the country, but that does not prevent me from protecting myself from evil forces. I try to associate with mostly good people. Fortunately for me, my family consists of really good souls; I couldn’t have asked for better. As far as relatives go, I am very careful in choosing with whom I associate. I try to maintain close relationships with only the really good ones. For others, my rule is to be strictly formal with them, i.e. what is the minimum required. Going further, I worship “Shanideva”, as advised by my astrologer, and I do so quite seriously. Gaining favour of gods and goddesses is also important for me. I worship “Durga Ma” by chanting a particular mantra suggested by my spiritual friend. All these getting together with good people, “grahas” and gods and goddesses is very satisfactory. However, I still felt a lot of vacuum.
Over a period of many decades, I have realised that this vacuum can only be filled by God. Only He, the omnipotent, can help in certain circumstances; only He, the omniscient, can guide me in the most difficult situations; only He, the omnipresent, can be available to me at all times; and only He, the Master of the universe, can provide whatever I need, whenever I need.
Additionally, I have realised that God is forever watching all of us; hearing whatever we say; and being aware of what we are thinking. And the purpose is simply to help, guide and reward in order to encourage us good people; the task of punishing is with the divine authorities. It took me quite some time to fully realise the fact that God, who is everything (7.19) has taken this duty upon Himself. This is true as realised by many. Due to this fact, I can live peacefully; I feel secure in spite of presence of many negative forces. I am so gratified that I spend fifteen minutes daily prior to going to sleep thanking the Lord for various things. The underlying emotion is: God, we have you. Without your presence I or anyone cannot gain peace, bliss or sense of security. Thank God that you are very much with us.
Bishnoi is a spiritual writer and can be reached at spiritual@ajitbishnoi.com