Anger Benagali - Book Summary | JainGPT

The book "Anger Benagali" (ক্রোধ) by Dada Bhagwan, published by Dada Bhagwan Aradhana Trust, is a discourse on the nature of anger and how to overcome it, presented from the perspective of Dada Bhagwan's spiritual teachings. The core message emphasizes that anger is a weakness, not a show of strength, and provides a framework for understanding and transcending this emotion.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the book's key themes and teachings:

1. Understanding Anger as Weakness:

The book consistently portrays anger as a sign of weakness ("durbolota"). It is not a sign of strength or power.
When we get angry, it's because our expectations are not met, our words are misunderstood, or there's a difference of opinion.
The author highlights that we often mistake anger for assertiveness or a righteous response, but it stems from ego, attachment, and a lack of understanding.

2. The Nature of Anger:

Anger is described as a "fire" that first burns oneself and then others. It's like a matchstick that ignites itself before igniting something else.
It's also likened to gunpowder, where the explosive force is anger itself.
The book differentiates between the visible anger (krodh) and the inner turmoil (gussa or rag). True anger, according to Dada Bhagwan, is accompanied by ego.
Anger is a result of our beliefs and perceptions. Our reaction depends on our internal programming and the "belief system" we hold.

3. The Causes of Anger:

Ego and Self-Esteem: Anger arises from a wounded ego, when one feels insulted, belittled, or their self-image is threatened.
Attachment and Expectations: When our desires and expectations are not met, it leads to frustration and anger.
Misunderstanding and Ignorance: Lack of understanding, not being able to see clearly, or when our "sense of comprehension" (bodh) fails, anger can arise.
Loss and Damage: Experiencing loss, damage, or harm can trigger anger.
Possessiveness and "Myness": Anger often stems from possessiveness over things, people, or opinions. For example, anger over a broken cup is linked to the ego's attachment to possessions.

4. Anger vs. Righteous Indignation:

The book distinguishes between personal anger (which is always a weakness) and anger that might arise for the well-being of another, like a parent or guru towards a disciple for correction. However, even this is framed as a fine line, and if fueled by personal ego or attachment, it can still lead to negative karma.

5. The Consequences of Anger:

Internal Damage: Anger burns the self first, causing internal suffering and mental distress.
External Conflict: It damages relationships and creates animosity with others.
Karma: Anger creates negative karma, leading to future suffering and unfavorable rebirths. It can "mix" or "damage" the preparation for future lives.
Loss of Purity: Anger pollutes one's character and spiritual progress.

6. The Strength of Non-Anger:

Inner Strength: The ability to tolerate insults and provocations without reacting with anger is considered true strength.
Influence and Authority: Those who remain calm and non-reactive possess a natural authority and influence that commands respect. Even animals are subdued by such conduct.
"Sheel" (Character): A calm and virtuous character ("sheel") has a more powerful effect than anger.

7. The Path to Overcoming Anger (The "Akram" Path):

Self-Awareness and Observation: The first step is to recognize when anger arises, observe it without judgment, and note down the situations and people that trigger it.
Understanding the Root Cause: Instead of trying to suppress anger, the focus is on understanding its root cause, which is often ego and mistaken beliefs.
"Pratikraman" (Self-Repentance/Acknowledgement): When anger occurs, one should acknowledge their mistake and sincerely repent. This involves understanding one's own weakness and resolving not to repeat the behavior. If possible, apologize to the person affected.
"Bhagwan" as the Witness: The teaching suggests recognizing the true Self ("I am the pure Soul") which is beyond anger. By identifying with the Self, the grip of anger loosens.
Acceptance of Karma: Understanding that anger and the situations that trigger it are often the results of past karma helps in reducing personal reactions. The external person is seen as a "nimitta" (instrument) of one's own karma.
Spiritual Knowledge (Gnan): The ultimate solution lies in acquiring self-knowledge from a Gnani Purush (an enlightened being). This knowledge changes the inner perspective and dissolves the roots of anger.
"Know and Control": The teaching emphasizes "knowing" what anger is and why it arises. Once understood, it can be controlled. The book states, "Once you know, anger will not arise."

8. Analogy of Red Signal:

Anger is compared to a red signal. While it has a purpose (to prevent accidents or wrong actions), it should only be used when necessary and for the correct duration. An unnecessary or prolonged red signal causes delay and problems. Similarly, anger has its place as a "signal" for correction, but it shouldn't be an uncontrolled reaction.

9. The Role of the "Gnani Purush":

The book highlights that direct spiritual knowledge from a Gnani Purush is essential for true liberation from anger. Just as a lit lamp can light another, only a self-realized soul can impart self-realization.
The "Akram" path, facilitated by Dada Bhagwan and His successors, offers a direct and swift method to attain this self-knowledge.

10. Anger as a "Food" for Ego:

Anger, pride, deceit, and greed are described as nourished by specific "foods." When these vices are deprived of their "food" for a sustained period, they begin to fade.
The author stresses that we unwittingly provide "food" to anger by reinforcing our beliefs about why we are angry or by harboring resentment.

In essence, "Anger Benagali" is a practical guide to understanding and overcoming anger by shifting one's perspective from identifying with the ego and emotions to recognizing the true Self. It advocates for self-awareness, repentance, and the acquisition of spiritual knowledge as the most effective ways to achieve inner peace and freedom from anger.