Saint Mira

This document is a book titled "Saint Mira" by T. L. Vaswani, published by St. Mira's English Medium School. It is a devotional exploration of the life and teachings of the 16th-century Indian mystic and poet, Mira Bai, who is revered for her intense devotion (bhakti) to Lord Krishna.

The book is structured into several chapters, each delving into different aspects of Mira's life and spiritual journey:

• Introduction: The author begins by addressing the spiritual unrest of the time, referencing the insights of Carl Jung and Sir James Jeans regarding the human need for a religious outlook and the shift towards a non-mechanical reality. He then introduces Mira as a "shining light" whose devotion to Krishna is the source of her spiritual power. He highlights the enduring appeal of her songs, which express complete surrender to the Divine.

• Of the Race of Heroes: This chapter positions Mira within the rich heritage of Indian spiritual figures. It emphasizes her unwavering devotion, her fearlessness in expressing her faith, and her complete surrender to the Lord, as described by Nabhaji. The author places Mira within a historical context of great Indian Bhakti poets and singers, noting her contemporaries like Sur Das and Tulsi Das, and highlighting their shared emphasis on the divine Name. Mira is presented as a heroine of Rajasthan, embodying Rajput valor and resistance to injustice in her unwavering spiritual pursuit.

• "Where is my Bridegroom?": This chapter recounts Mira's early life and the profound moment when she first identified Krishna as her "dulaha" (bridegroom) and her "Beloved." It details how this realization shaped her life, leading her to create an image of Krishna and dedicate herself to him. The story of receiving the sacred image of Gridhara Gopal from a sadhu further solidifies her devotion. Her life is described as a transformation into the image of her Beloved, marked by an inner calm and divine reflection, even amidst persecution.

• Through Darkness to Light: This section chronicles Mira's journey from her royal life to her spiritual path. After her husband's death, she embraced detachment (vairagya) and focused entirely on Krishna. The chapter details the persecution she faced from her brother-in-law, Rana Vikramajit, who attempted to dissuade her from her devotion through various means, including poison and a serpent, which miraculously turned into a vision of Krishna. Mira's decision to leave the palace, seeking permission from Saint Tulsi Das, marks her transition to a life of wandering and intensified devotion. The author outlines five stages of Mira's quest: awakening, realization of the world's transience, purification through mortification, illumination and vision, and finally, union.

• Krishna, Krishna, All Around!: This chapter describes Mira's pilgrimage to various Krishna shrines, seeking refuge from the "flame of separation." Her life is characterized by the breaking of worldly attachments and a consuming longing for Krishna. She encounters people and children along her path, sharing her devotion and her songs. The narrative emphasizes how Mira, through renunciation and intense longing, undergoes a purification process, leading to a state of "songful love" and a deep realization of Krishna's omnipresence. She finds the Divine in all aspects of life and in the humblest of creatures.

• Brindaban-Leela: This chapter focuses on Mira's arrival and experiences in Brindaban, the sacred abode of Krishna. Her encounter with Jiv Goswami, a follower of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, highlights her profound spiritual understanding and devotion, which leads him to break his vow of not meeting women. In Brindaban, Mira continues her ecstatic worship and singing, inspiring the local population. Her journey is described as a continuous outpouring of love and surrender, often leading to ecstatic states.

• The City of Many Gates: This final chapter narrates Mira's journey to Dwarka, another significant pilgrimage site for Krishna devotees. It emphasizes Dwarka as the "City of many gates" to God. Mira's time in Dwarka is marked by her intense devotion, her kirtans, and the formation of a devotional group. The chapter recounts a tradition of her brother-in-law's attempt to bring her back to Chitor, which she refuses, ultimately merging with her Beloved in the temple. The narrative culminates in Mira's final union with Krishna, described as a mystical event filled with divine light.

• Appendix: A Pilgrim of Eternity: This section is a biographical sketch of the author, T. L. Vaswani, written by J. P. Vaswani. It details Vaswani's life, his spiritual awakening, his commitment to social service, his involvement in India's freedom struggle, and his extensive work in education and youth empowerment. It highlights his philosophy of living a life of love, service, and compassion, drawing parallels between his own life and the spiritual ideals he promoted, including a deep respect for Mira's legacy.

• Glossary and Index: The book concludes with a glossary of Sanskrit and Hindi terms used throughout the text and an index of key concepts and names mentioned, further aiding the reader's understanding.

In essence, "Saint Mira" by T. L. Vaswani is a spiritual biography that celebrates Mira Bai's unwavering devotion to Lord Krishna, her renunciation of worldly comforts, her courageous stand against persecution, and her eventual attainment of divine union. The book also serves as a testament to the author's own spiritual journey and his commitment to spreading love, service, and the eternal truths of Indian spirituality.