Self Realization

This book, "Self Realization" by Dada Bhagwan, published by Dada Bhagwan Aradhana Trust, presents a simple and precise science for achieving Self-realization.

The core teachings revolve around the concept of Akram Vignanam (the science of the stepless path), a direct and shortcut method to spiritual liberation, as revealed by Gnani Purush Dada Bhagwan.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and teachings:

1. The Nature of Dada Bhagwan and the Gnani Purush:

• Dada Bhagwan explains that the physical form seen is A.M. Patel, a contractor by profession, who lived by the principle of "religion in business, not business in religion."
• The true Dada Bhagwan is the divine consciousness that manifested within A.M. Patel in 1958. This divine entity is the Lord of the fourteen worlds and resides within everyone, but is fully manifested only in the Gnani Purush.
• The Gnani Purush is the medium through which this divine knowledge is transmitted. They are not God themselves, but have God (Dada Bhagwan) manifested within them.

2. The Purpose of Human Life and the Goal of Moksha:

• Human life is often lived without a clear purpose. The book emphasizes that the ultimate purpose is Moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death).
• Moksha is described as having two stages:
  • First Moksha: Experiencing peace and equanimity amidst worldly difficulties, where worldly suffering does not touch one.
  • Absolute Moksha: Liberation from the physical body.
• The path to Moksha requires understanding one's true self, the Atma.

3. The Pursuit of Eternal Happiness:

• Humans seek happiness, but worldly happiness is temporary and ultimately leads to sorrow.
• True, eternal happiness resides within the Atma. Attaining the Atma is the key to lasting bliss.
• The book distinguishes between temporary, external happiness and the permanent, internal happiness of the Atma.

4. The Separation of 'I' and 'My':

• A crucial teaching is to differentiate between the true Self ('I' - the Atma) and one's possessions and identifications ('My' - the ego, body, mind, and worldly attachments).
• The process involves understanding that 'I' is real, while 'My' is relative and Maya (illusion).
• This separation is a scientific process that the Gnani Purush facilitates.

5. Identifying the Gnani Purush:

• The book explains how to recognize a Gnani Purush. They are characterized by humility, detachment, absence of ego and possessiveness, and their words reflect divine knowledge.
• A Gnani Purush is the "wonder of the world" who can explain the workings of the universe and provide direct spiritual experience.
• They are not Gurus in the traditional sense, but rather divine beings who facilitate the direct experience of the Self.

6. The Akram Path vs. the Kramik Path:

• Kramik Marg (step-by-step path) involves gradual progression through austerities and ethical practices.
• Akram Marg (the stepless path) is a direct, shortcut method facilitated by the Gnani Purush. It's like taking a lift instead of climbing stairs.
• This path allows one to achieve liberation while still living in the world, fulfilling worldly duties without getting entangled.

7. The Knowledge Session (Gyan Vidhi):

• The book describes the Gyan Vidhi, a two-hour process conducted by the Gnani Purush.
• This session involves the separation of the Atma from the non-Atma (pudgal) through specific spiritual formulas.
• It leads to the burning of karma, breaking of coverings, and the awakening of the Atma.

8. The Importance of Following the Gnani's Commands (Aagya):

• After receiving the knowledge, following the Gnani's commands (Aagya) is essential for protection and continued progress.
• These commands act as a fence to safeguard the spiritual experience from the negative influences of the world (kusang).
• Living according to these commands leads to rapid spiritual progress, manifestation of inner powers, and ultimately, liberation.

9. The Principle of 'Adjust Everywhere':

• This is presented as a fundamental principle for navigating life peacefully.
• It involves adapting to all situations and people, regardless of their nature, without internal conflict.
• By adjusting, one avoids clashes (takrav) and preserves inner peace and spiritual energy.

10. The Concept of 'Who Suffers is at Fault' (Bhugte Usi Ki Bhool):

• A core tenet of Dada Bhagwan's philosophy is that suffering is always a result of one's own mistakes or karma.
• The external world and other people are merely instruments (nimitta) in the unfolding of one's karma.
• Understanding this principle leads to the cessation of blame, anger, and resentment, paving the way for liberation.

11. The Importance of 'Pratikraman' (Repentance and Correction):

• Pratikraman is a process of confessing one's faults, seeking forgiveness from the pure Soul (Atma), and resolving not to repeat the mistake.
• It's a way to wash away the negative impressions and purify the self.

12. The Trimandir and its Purpose:

• The Trimandir is a unique spiritual center designed to embody the principle of non-sectarianism and accommodate the deities of all major religions.
• Its purpose is to foster unity, peace, and spiritual upliftment, helping people overcome religious differences and find common ground in the pursuit of Self-realization.

In essence, "Self Realization" by Dada Bhagwan offers a profound yet accessible path to spiritual liberation, emphasizing self-understanding, detachment, and the divine guidance of a Gnani Purush through the Akram path. The book encourages readers to embrace a life of awareness, adjustability, and self-responsibility to achieve lasting happiness and freedom.