All about Sivananda

By SRI SWAMI VENKATESANANDA

First Edition: 1957
Second Edition: 1971
Third Edition: 1978
Fourth Edition: 1985
(2000 Copies)
World Wide Web (WWW) Edition : 1998

Published By
THE DIVINE LIFE SOCIETY
P.O. Shivanandanagar—249 192
Distt. Tehri-Garhwal, Uttaranchal,
Himalayas, India.

Prologue

Bhagavan! Thy child's tiny hands have gathered these small flowers from the immense garden of Thy glory, and woven them into a clumsy garland; but it is offered at Thy Divine Feet with a big noise (calling it "All About Sivananda"). The fragrance, and the beauty and the colour, belong to Thee. It is Thine own unsurpassable love for Thy children that makes Thee accept this, too.

It was said of Lord Sri Krishna that everything about Him was sweet. It is true of Bhagavan Sivananda, today. Dr. Kuppuswamy transformed himself into Swami Sivananda: and the austere, stern and hard taskmaster Swami Sivananda has somehow mysteriously vanished-when and how, no one knows. The Siva^* we see in our midst today is the most loveable concrete manifestation of Divine Life.

Preface

"All About Sivananda" is a kind of all-round meditation on the various phases of the personality and message of the great saint and sage, His Holiness Sri Swami Sivanadaji Maharaj, as visualised by the author, Swami Venkatesananda, who was a direct disciple of the Master. This is a veritable pen-picture of the many sides which the majestic hero of this book touched in his personal life and teachings.

This little, interesting book was printed three times already, in the years 1957, 1971 and 1978. But the printed copies were exhausted quickly, since devotees everywhere began to demand copies for their daily religious sessions. The impact of this beautiful presentation seems to have been such on the minds of lovers of God and religious men, that we received a pressing request from Sri D.S. Kulkarni, a retired teacher, from Hubli, Karnataka, that this book be made available to the public as early as possible, and with this request he sent his devout love-offering by means of a financial contribution towards its publication. This Institution is grateful to this ardent well-wisher of this Ashram and devotee of Sri Gurudev Swami Sivananda, for his being instrumental in the coming out of this book now in its Fourth Edition, for the benefit of everyone.

The Light That Is Life

1. Sivananda's Life

Siva's life is God's Guarantee to mankind. It is the Sadhaka's Guide, an open scripture for all to learn from. It is a divine bridge, linking the finite with the Infinite, connecting the land of mortals with the Realm of Immortality.

As a student, he exemplified in himself the ideals of obedience and reverence. The Young Dr. Kuppuswami showed that selfless and dynamic service paved the way to material prosperity, too! He set an example in indiscriminate charity and proved that it invited wealth, peace and happiness. As a flourishing doctor in Malaya during the 1920's, his cheerful countenance and robust body, proclaimed that intense work done with the correct mental attitude strengthened the body, lengthened life, and infused peace into the heart and bliss into the soul of man.

By the single act of renunciation of all that riches and a prosperous career, Siva had taught more than any scripture could, that realisation of the Self is dearer than wealth, dearer than everything, than life itself. Awe-inspiring austerities, begging and pennilessness caused-not unhappiness nor suffering in the heart of the zealous seeker Dr. Kuppuswami, but-an intensification of the faith in God and His Unfailing Mercy.

To mankind blinded by the cataract of materialism, faithlessness and egoism, Siva extended his helping hand-the Divine Life Society. He gave asylum to aspirants in his Ashram. In the Forest Academy, Siva's students have their inner vision unveiled.

This God has clothed himself in human garb. He has come amidst us as a Divine Invitation to a perennial Forest of Immortal Bliss.

2. Sivananda's Horoscope

	Moon
			Lagna Mars Saturn Rahu
Kethu			Mercury Sun
		Jupiter	Venus

I have watched Siva listen with great enthusiasm to palmists and astrologers praising and admiring his life and mission. Blessed are the palmists who have held the divine hand for few minutes; and blessed are the astrologers who have meditated upon His Divine Life for a while. Siva too, is interested in them, in encouraging them to express themselves and in making them known to the public at large. The creator of creation and the ordainer of the orbit of heavenly bodies; does he need to be told about his own traits and forewarned about his future?

He was born in 1887 to live for nearly another century. His birth-star was Bharani, which has made him rule the Dharani (earth). What need have we to analyse his horoscope? He has re-arranged our birth chart and changed the very course of our life. Blessed are we that we live in His Time.

3. Sivananda's Bed Exercises

The core of Siva's teachings is sincerity, earnestness and aspiration. He is firm in his declaration that if one is eager to do Sadhana, it will be impossible for him to find excuses not to do it! If one wishes to do some exercises, he says, he will do them, even if he is bed ridden, on the bed itself. He has given the following easy exercises, which every one, however old and infirm, can practise.

Exercise No 1: Catch hold of your ankles behind your back while squatting. Now bend forward and touch the ground with your forehead. Release the hold on the ankles and in one backward motion swing back, resting the two palms on the ground. Keep the right palm on the ground and swing the trunk to the right and touch the ground on the right side with the left palm also. Twist the trunk to the left side and place both the palms on the ground on the left side.

Exercise No 2: Stretch the legs forward. Catch hold of the toes with your hands. Try to bend forward and touch the knees with your forehead, without bending the knees.

Exercise No 3: Sit cross-legged again. Breathe out completely and slowly. Draw the belly in (Uddiyana Bandha).

Exercise No 4: Release the abdomen. Breathe normally. Now, draw the belly in and release in rapid succession. Do not hold the breath. Do not shake the body also violently. This is an exercise exclusively for the stomach. This is called Agnisara.

Exercise No 5: Close the fist and raise the forearm, bending at the elbows. Throw the arms forward; then again draw the forearm backward, bending at the elbows. Repeat this three or four times. Stretch the arms sideways and resume the normal position. Similarly, stretch the arms upwards and bring them back to the normal position.

4. Sivananda's Favourite Asanas

Siva began practising Yogasanas even while he was serving as a doctor in Malaya. He was so enthusiastic about them that he taught them to his cook (who later became his disciple, Swami Shraddhananda, and attained Mahasamadhi at his lotus-feet). Sirsasana is undoubtedly the most favourite Asava of Siva. He regards it as the King of Asanas. It is a tonic to the brain, a cure for many ailments of the eyes and ears, a blessing for Brahmacharins and brain-workers, and an indispensable friend of spiritual aspirants. In fact, Siva likes Sirsasana so much that even to those who plead inability to do it, he prescribes the "Rabbit-Pose" (sit in Vajrasana, bend forward and touch the ground with the crown of your head, resting the palms a little away on either side) or at, least, letting the head "hang out" of the bed for a while. Sarvangasana is the next important Asana which Siva likes very much and prescribes to everyone who wishes to maintain good health and enjoy a long life. "Even if you can't do Sirsasana and don't do other Asanas, practise Sarvangasana for a few minutes a day," says Siva.

Paschimottanasana completes the trio. It exercises the abdomen and the spine, thus warding off a host of diseases and preserving perfect health. Sarvangasana exercises the thyroid gland and enables you to enjoy everlasting youth. Sirsasana makes you shine with Ojas Shakti.

Vajrasana Siva prescribes to all to help digestion; sit in it for fifteen minutes after meals and you will never suffer from indigestion.

Siva is very very regular in the practice of Asanas; and he emphasises that even if you select two Asanas and devote three minutes to the practice, if you are regular, you will derive immense benefit.

5. Sivananda's Pranayama

Technique: Sit comfortably on a chair, sofa or easy chair. Draw the air through both nostrils, as long as comfortable. Retain as long as comfortable. Repeat your Mantra or "OM" while retaining the breath. Then exhale as long as comfortable. You need not observe any ratio between the inhalation, exhalation and retention; but let the inhalation and exhalation be deep and full.

Benefits: The benefits of this Pranayama are incalculable. All the muscles are relaxed. All the nerves are toned. Rhythm and harmony are established in the entire being. Mind is calmed. Circulation is promoted. An inexpressible peace and bliss come to reign within you.

You can do it in the morning while lying in bed. Your mind will become alert for commencing Japa and Dhyana. You can do it when the mind is about to lose balance on account of the setting in of lust, anger or other evil Vrittis; the mind will be filled with a great power that will prevent the evil Vrittis from disturbing it. You can do it just before commencing your study; the mind will be concentrated easily and what you study will be indelibly impressed in your mind. You can do it during your office work; you will get new strength every time and you will never be tired. When you return home from the office you can practise this Pranayama and you will be recharged with fresh energy.

The greatest advantage is that once you start doing it you will do it very often; and your mind can never find an excuse for not practising this Ati-Sukha-Purvak Pranayama, very very easy and comfortable Pranayama which has all the advantages of Pranayama, without its "rules and regulations". Do it from now without fail.

6. Sivananda's Method Of Meditation

Siva is the living illustration of "Brahma Karma-Samadhi" which Lord Krishna has described in the Bhagavad Gita. He is a life-long ceaseless meditation on the Absolute. It is Siva who has fulfilled the mission of the sages of the Upanishads and who has synthesised meditation and life itself into a divine unbroken experience of God-consciousness.

His life demonstrates his teachings. And, he instructs his disciples to practise what he has aptly termed "battle-field Pratyahara". The aspirant should be able to shut-in the mind on the battle-field of daily life, anywhere at any time. At the same time, Siva insists upon the first attempt at meditation in the quiet early morning hours-Brahmamuhurta. This is when the Sadhaka fixes his mind on God: Dharana. The rest of the day is to be meditation, unbroken God consciousness in the midst of endless routine of variegated activity.

Siva is synthesis, every inch of him. He cannot see difference among the Yogas, religions or systems of philosophic thought. To prove this, this Bee-God has gathered the essence from all Yogas and from all religions and in his own honeycomb, the Sivananda Literature, given us the honey of Divine Life, the Yoga of synthesis.

He wants us to be Bhaktas and Yogins, Dhyanins and Jnanins, dynamic selfless workers and detached Vedantins, all at the same time. He leads the way. The continuous meditation during the day that Siva practises and preaches is, thus, made to run through all the grooves of the Yoga of Synthesis. God in the man makes us His servants, God in the shrines makes us His devotees, God within us beckons to us to close our eyes and remain self forgetfully absorbed in him. God in all reveals the Cosmic Consciousness that pervades all creation and transcends it. This is the method of meditation that Lord Sivananda exemplifies in himself for our emulation.

7. Sivananda's Kirtan

Siva's Kirtan, like Krishna's Flute is enrapturing. In it mingle melodiously the plaintive prayer of a meek devotee, the eager comradeship of a loving friend, the humble submission of a loyal servant, and the total surrender of a conquered beloved. In the sweetest nectar of his Nama-Sankirtan, Siva has mixed the Nava-Rasas; and in his mode of singing he beautifully expresses all the Bhavas.

Siva adores all Gods, knowing that there is only One God. He sings the following invocatory San-Kirtan Dhvanis invariably at the commencement of every auspicious undertaking.

Jaya Ganesha Jaya Ganesha Jaya Ganesha Pahi Mam
Sri Ganesha Sri Ganesha Sri Ganesha Raksha Mam
Jaya Sarasvati Jaya Sarasvati Jaya Sarasvati Pahi Mam
Sri Sarasvati Sri Sarasvati Sri Sarasvati Raksha Mam
Saravanabava Saravanabava Saravanabava Pahi Mam
Subramanya Subramanya Subramanya Raksha Mam
Jaya Guru Siva Guru Hari Guru Ram
Jagad Guru Param Guru Sat Guru Shyam
Adi Guru Advaita Guru Ananta Guru Om
Chit Guru Chidghana Guru Chinmaya Guru Om
Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Namah Sivaya Namah Sivaya Nama Sivaya
Namah Sivaya Namah Sivaya Nama Sivaya
Dattatreya Dattatreya Dattatreya Pahi Mam
Dattaguru Dattaguru Dattaguru Raksha Mam
Anjaneya Anjaneya Anjaneya Pahi Mam
Hanumanta Hanumanta Hanumanta Raksha Mam
Ganga Rani Ganga Rani Ganga Rani Pahi Mam
Bhagirathi Bhagirathi Bhagirathi Raksha Mam
Om Tat Sat Om Tat Sat Om Tat Sat Om
Om Shanti Om Shanti Om Shanti Om.

8. Sivananda's Dance

Was it to remove a Puranic misconception that Siva danced? Lord Siva's Tandava-Nritya even now evokes dreadful awe in the heart of the devotee; it signifies the end of a world-cycle, a Pralaya. Before our very eyes Bhagavan Sivananda has often danced; we now realise that Lord Siva's Tandava-Nritya, too, should have been a bliss-radiating spectacle, transporting those who are fortunate to witness it, to realms of bliss and peace. Siva's dance does signify the end of a world-cycle; those who have witnessed it are liberated here and now from the cycle of birth and death.

Sivananda would dance like Krishna, with a countenance radiating bliss; and change the Sankirtan Dhvani and with a serenely peaceful expression do the Tandava-Nritya. Why did he combine the two? Is it to reveal to us that Krishna's Rasa-Lila, Siva's Tandava-Nritya and Sivananda's Dance had the same message to mankind, and led man, through self-surrender and annihilation of the little individual self, to liberation from Samsara?

Young and old, men and women, rich and poor, and high officials and haughty leaders-would dance with Siva. Siva's bliss is highly infectious. Once he danced in Lahore; people who had no faith in Saguna-Upasana, in His Name, began to dance, too, and their headgears rolled on the ground; so blissfully self forgetful were they. Siva's dance liberates us from our own little self's vanities.

9. Sivananda's Prayer

To what sort of a God does this incarnate Divinity pray? Read the first line of Siva's Universal Prayer: (text is given below)

"O Adorable Lord of Mercy and Love"
Well, where does this Lord reside? Read further:

If you read between these two lines, you get at the secret. Siva, Lord Incarnate, prays to YOU the real Godhead in you-and Godhead this God defines as Mercy and Love-to awaken you to the reality that God is Mercy and Love. Why has he called this the "Universal Prayer"; not only because people belonging to all religions and creeds can repeat it, but because this prayer will bring universal peace and prosperity. And, what doubt is there if all are merciful and loving?

O Adorable Lord of Mercy and Love!
Salutations and prostrations unto thee
Thou art Omnipresent, Omnipotent, Omniscient,
Thou art Satchidananda.
Thou art the Indweller of all beings
Grant us an understanding heart,
Equal vision, balanced mind,
Faith, devotion and wisdom.
Grant us inner spiritual strength
To resist temptation and to control the mind.
Free us from egoism, lust, greed and hatred,
Fill our hearts with divine virtues.
Let us behold Thee in all these names and forms,
Let us serve Thee in all these names and forms,
Let us ever remember Thee.
Let us ever sing Thy Glories.
Let Thy Name be ever on our lips,
Let us abide in Thee for ever and ever.

10. Sivananda's Routine

"Routine" suggests a colourless life and insipid existence. But Siva the Master-Juggler is able to produce from his ordinary "routine"-box remarkable wonders that surprise and delight the world. Siva does not step out of his routine to work a wonder: he makes working wonders a routine job! The strong rope of his daily routine is composed of a thousand elastic bands of variegated activity. Early great thought is immediately acted upon; and the resultant action is assimilated into the routine, instantly creating room for the next wonder!

Here is the sage's routine. He wakes up at 3 a.m. He concludes the recitation of morning hymns and Guru Stotras by 4 when he commences his morning meditation. At 6 he is ready for Asanas and bed exercises. Study and writing follow. After a light breakfast, the sage attends to his office-work,-interviewing visitors, instructing Sadhakas, inspecting Ashram-work, etc. At about midday he returns to his Kutir for his lunch and a brief rest. Study and writing follow again; and the evening is spent in studying the incoming letters and interviewing visitors again. After a spell of evening meditation, the sage goes to the Satsanga Bhavan for the Satsanga. He is not only the Sat (the reality, the Good, the wise) whose Sanga (association) people come to have, but he himself conducts the programme, and makes it highly interesting for everybody. The Satsanga concludes at about 10 p.m. and, after ensuring every guest has been properly served and every inmate is comfortable, the sage retires for the night.

Siva lives for the good and for the spiritual uplift of mankind. This divine task forms his daily routine. Regularity in his habits, systematic work and punctuality in his attention to every item of his programme-these are the qualities that characterise his daily life and contribute to the success of his Mission.

11. Sivananda's Method Of Work

Siva's method of work is methodical. His is a system that is designed to surmount all kinds of unsystematic activity of the workers who "help" (!) him. His own manuscripts and the various articles that are received for publication, get themselves triplicated at his hands, so that "even if one is lost the others would be same". Besides ensuring that the Ashram Library and "reprint shelf" are invariably provided with several copies of every new book, he maintains a Library of them himself, and he would laughingly reveal that "even if all these are lost, the Public Libraries in India would lend me a copy for reprint! I don't fail to send them a single book published by us.

To Siva all work is play and all play is work. His atonement with the Divine Will, his extraordinary sense of humour, and his disarming sense of oneness which he creates in everyone around him, make all his work look like a divine play. Those who have watched him very very closely know that he has a hidden, inward seriousness that transforms all play into work; a joy ride in a car would bring Divine Life to more people; a pleasure trip to Hardwar, Dehra Dun or Mussoorie would prove to be a round of Satsangas, and would culminate in a precious volume of his lectures and talks.

As a wise and efficient administrator, he trusts everybody and lets each office bearer of the institution handle his responsibility. He tolerates any amount of inefficiency. But the vital departments are under his immediate supervision; distribution of books free, attention to guests, holding of medical camps, etc. By his own example in the management of these departments, he gives the best lead to others in charge of other departments. With the insight of a Master, he would point his finger just at the spot where there has been a lapse!

12. Sivananda's Durbar

There sits His Holy Majesty, Siva, with mighty "Generals" of his Adhyatmik army, rulers of the mind and conquerers of the senses, at his feet, having been robbed of their heart. Siva has dethroned the little self which had so long reigned supreme in their heart, and enthroned himself there. No crown adorns his cleanshaven head; but the crowns of thousands of devotees' heads vie with one another for a dust of his feet.

Siva's Durbar is incomparable. Milk and honey flow; and fruits and sweets are offered to him and instantly distributed to every-body. Poets and musicians, talented artists and learned pandits, are all honoured.

Is it like Janaka's Durbar? Janaka was a royal sage; Siva is a sage royal. Janaka had enormous wealth; and he gave rich presents to those who deserved them. We don't hear that Janaka was involved in debt and yet was charitable! And, that is precisely what we find in Siva. When the Ashram is in debt to the tune of Rs. 80,000 Siva personally ensures that no item of expenditure is curtailed!

Is it like Karna's Durbar? Karna approaches Siva very close in charity. Whoever approaches Karna never returned empty-handed. But Siva never waits to be approached! He runs to you, to give you everything-food for your body, mind and soul!

Akbar, perhaps; he was famous for his lavish support of artists and poets. But the poor songster or poet who did not come up to his expectation forfeited his head; in Siva's Durbar, he gains almost equal recognition with the best of musicians and poets!

Above all, which King gave away such a wealth of wisdom? Apart from the dinners and entertainments, apart from the music, dance and drama, apart from the titles and presents awarded, Sivananda's Durbar will forever raise before our inner vision the inexhaustible spiritual treasure that Siva gave everyone, in plenty.

13. Sivananda's Traits

The predominant feature of Siva's personality is the perennial inspiration that he radiates everybody who approaches him. Diffidence and gloom dare not get anywhere near him. In his presence "the lame climb hills and the dumb wax eloquent". The "artist" who has just learned to hold the brush, the "musician" who has found the first-lessons a nightmare, a doctor who can prescribe "Saridan" for headache, the "engineer" who is sure that bricks and mortar go to make a wall, and the "writer" whose assets is the luck which brought him to Siva, would all feel for the period they are in His Presence that they can perform better than the experts in their field!

Siva is all-optimism. He excels Churchill here: Churchill was sure of "ultimate victory" but to Siva every moment is success, and successive moments can only surpass each other in the glory! Problems and difficulties, obstacles and impediments, are as straw before the godly gale of Siva.

Siva is the positive pole in relation to the negative one-every distressed person on each. When they meet, a wonderful current of joy is generated and the bliss completes the circuit! Negative thoughts, negative feelings and negative (destructive) activities dare not approach him. In and around him thrive love, compassion, service, selflessness and unbounded dynamism.

"Seeing good in everything" is the material of which Siva's eye-balls are made. Serving all respectfully, worshipfully, lovingly and with all compassion is the power that animates his hands. Love is the predominant trait in this God among men. Sarva-bhutahite ratah-devoted to the welfare of every-body this divine being dwells on this blessed earth.

14. Sivananda's Behaviour

Siva's behaviour is a model for every gentleman in the world to copy. The poise and dignity of bearing, the nobility and serenity of demeanour, the grace and compassion of his look, the sweetness and kindness of his speech, the majesty of his gait, and the politeness of his commands these are the qualities of Siva that ought to be closely watched, learnt and assimilated.

The sage who is worshipped by the foremost saints of the world as Lord Incarnate, bows to everyone and greets even a child with folded palms. He always uses the respectable mode of addressing everybody. By his own example he has revived the glorious "Namaskara-Yoga" which Lord Krishna taught to Sri Uddhava (vide the Bhagavata).

Siva is a Universal Being in which every person sees his own reflection. An American Businessman finds that Siva's polished manners and efficient administrative ability, would obtain for him a front-rank among the businessmen of America. Europeans crowd round his lotus feet, claiming that, by virtue of his etiquette and cultured behaviour, he belongs to them.

Towards his own disciples and everyone who comes to him with an afflicted heart; Siva behaves as though he is their grandmother,-loving, indulgent, consoling and kind. There is no limit to his tolerance and forbearance in their case. But he does not merely want to heal their sores: he infuses strength into them. Occasionally he would show that is heart is full of compassion, but not weak: and for a brief moment now and then he would reveal that he is a divine taskmaster, stern and exacting.

Siva has no codified behaviour: it is the spontaneous expression of his divine nature.

15. Sivananda's Sishtachara

The devil finds it convenient to quote the scripture: for he has information without the responsibility to know, the true spirit to assimilate and to put it into practice. An Upanishadic Mantra is parodied to pamper pride: "who is to bow to whom?" asks the false Vedantin. Yagnavalkya was instructing Maitreyi on the state of Absolute Consciousness where one is not conscious of a second thing! The false Vedantin's doctrine is laconically expressed by Siva in his famous Sutra: "Teen Kaalme Jagat nahim, daal me nimak nahim" (He prattles 'there is no world in the three periods of time', but he is angered when there is no salt in the soup!). To such Vedantins, Siva is an eye-opener. His Sishtachara is intended to awaken them to the right way to qualify themselves for the descent of Vedantic realisation.

Siva honours all Sannyasins, Sadhus, Pandits, Artists and Leaders. He greets them with a Namaskara that portrays the divine humility and devotion of his heart. He offers them fruits and milk, while giving them the Prasad or his own books free he stands up, bows down before them and gives with reverence. While receiving them and when they take leave of him, he expresses his gratitude for their visit. If they deliver a lecture Siva gives them a special seat of honour, garlands them and introduces them in glowing terms to the audience. After the discourse, he thanks them and surprises them saying "I am the foremost student".

Entertainment of guests is a divine art which ought to be learnt from Siva. In it is found a paradoxical synthesis of reverence, familiarity and oneness. In his presence and in his attitude towards them, they are not awed by the reverence nor pampered by his familiarity, nor do they take undue advantage of the spirit of oneness. There is a perfect balance which he alone is able to achieve and sustain. There is something inexpressibly grand in his Sishtachara which levels all-quells the Pandit's pride and uplifts a baby-soul.

16. Sivananda's Aura

Discussing Siva's aura. Dr. Audrey Kargere, Ph.D., of America, a noted authority on the subject concludes: "I believe he is the Avatar of this new age". According to her, "the main theme of his auric picture is that of a photographic lens, which can see human beings and what is happening in the world. But it is focussed towards the Atma and it brings and materialises sparks of genius and inspiration to the earth-plane. This is very important as it designates the world teacher of this age. The blue in his aura transmutes the rose of love into the spiritual and idealistic; his nature is warm full of love, his heart is like a house and he invites everyone to move in. The violet signifies the religions-that he might be the Columbus of the spiritual field and has uncovered and will uncover many lands spiritually unknown to man, unless he treads the path that Swamiji outlines. The flame seen in his auric film was given to me in an uplifted moment, represents the purified state of man and gives the power of electricity to influence and inject all with Atma's energy. Swami Sivananda's reserve of power comes from this source. His expression comes under the red ray. Its planet is Mars and it gives power. He has positive reconstructive thinking and has the ability to heal himself through will-power. The red ray when used in the expression field means leadership. His life path colour is the blue ray: that gives him an insight into the scientific. Therefore, as a doctor he will have tremendous insight in the healing of man".

Siva's aura creates a powerful divine field around him; all those who enter this field are instantly transformed from beasts into human beings, and from human beings into divinities. The hopeless regain hope, the grief stricken find solace, the dying spirit is revived and the lamp of love, light and life is lit in every heart.

17. Sivananda's Physical Appearance

To saints have been ascribed a spiritual radiance that eludes the eye, and a resplendence that invisibly attracts the heart. But in the matter of physical appearance, very few of them could claim attractiveness; on the contrary, aspirants are warned that great saints might often have a repulsive exterior! Not so with Siva. Like Lord Rama and Sri Krishna, his physical appearance is as charming as his manners, and as attractive as the magnetism of his spiritual personality.

Swami Paramanandaji said once: "It is not necessary for Swami Sivananda to be advertised in the European Press; nor for him to deliver lectures nor even to talk to the people. Let him merely walk along the streets of a big city: there will be a crowd following him". Dr. Sivananda-Saroj's description is ecstatic: "That broad back, that skin with pigment moles, always red somewhere, with bruise or from the bite of a lucky insect. Those legs with shining skin; those feet we decorated with flowers: I have concentrated so much upon them that I can see them in solidity and relief" (though she is in Bombay). "At times the Figure turns his back and now comes in view that sweet child-like face shining with divine Ojas. How happy do we feel to see that face! How much do I wish to be there, to put on Kumkum and Akshat on that broad forehead which looks so beautiful with it. A Christian-devotee in South Africa after experiencing a miracle of Siva's saving Grace, asked for a photograph so that she could "Kiss the big belly".

Majestic, tall, handsome and gigantic personality, with broad shoulders, powerful limbs, well-proportioned in every detail-Siva's physical appearance is a sculptor's idol, the masterpiece of the divine artist.

18. Sivananda's Clothing

Siva's clothes and his radiant personality, belong to a Mutual Admiration Society. They enhance each other's charm.

The summer style is as delightful as the winter style is majestic. The dhoti he wears is the usual 54" cloth; but he rolls it up at the waist so that it barely covers the knees. That is the mark of Sannyasin. The dhoti is held in position by a belt of simple, coarse, towel. It is a cheap variety cloth; but around Siva's waist it is gorgeous and colourful. A thin piece of cloth is thrown around the shoulders, partly covering the chest; one end left loose and the other stuck into the dhoti at the waist. While walking in the sun, and occasionally when a fan is not at hand, the cloth serves as a soft fan! The sight attracts many "fans", eagerly watching the graceful movements of Siva's hand.

During winter, a great coat prevents the cold wind from hampering Siva's work; whatever be the weather, the service must go on. The gigantic personality appearing in the overcoat seems to be quite different from the simple Swami of summer months......Till he smiles and reveals: "the blanket you use is clumsy and hinders your work; I have made it into a coat and it doesn't interfere with my work". Sages do not advertise themselves; they are hidden in caves or coats.

Siva's clothes proclaim that a Sannyasin need not let dirty clothes proclaim his indifference to the world; the clothes he wears anyhow, should be neat and clean. They should be such as would serve the purpose, without increasing the wearer's vanity; deeply coloured ochre robes are to a Sannyasin what gaudy dresses are to modern men and women. As in everything else, Siva pays neither too much nor too little attention to clothes.

19. Sivananda's Food

Siva's food sustains humanity. Blessed are the shopkeepers that supply him the food stuffs! Blessed are the cooks that prepare the food!! Blessed are the devotees who contribute funds to the Annakshetra!! They provide the material food for Siva's physical body; and in return get from him indispensable food for their soul, viz., his grace.

See with your inner eye. Every particle of the food that Siva takes is vitalised by the prayer of a devotee somewhere in the world; prayer for Siva's long, long life on earth. Our prayer is his food.

For hours on end, Siva would sit consoling a heart-broken devotee, listen patiently to the tale of woe of a destitute widow or even to the pointless peroration of a proud Pundit; but he is extremely hasty while taking food. He can't waste a minute more on it.

The fish in the Ganges, the monkeys of Muni-kireti, visitors and disciples, by turns, get first attention; Siva must assure himself that they all had their share, before he can dine. When the food is best, he gets the least! The "Distribution List" would swell so.

Siva's diet is regulated by an extraordinary rule of tongue-control. The menu is constantly changed, so that the world seems to rotate round his dinner. This is the ideal he places before all Sannyasins. "Never demand a particular kind of food; take whatever comes-whether there is too much or no salt, too much or no chillies, too much or no sweet, in the food". Fasting on Ekadasi, saltless diet on Sundays, fruits and milk on some, rotti-dhall on others, and sumptuous South Indian dinner on occasions,-thus Siva offers a pattern for his disciples to adopt.

20. Sivananda's Drink

Lord Siva drank poison to save universe. Our Siva too, drinks away through his divinely graceful eyes, all our sins, all our evil Samskaras, the poison that has entered our heart and is ruining our life. A benign look; and the poison escapes our being through our eyes, as silent tears. Lo! when he has thus drunk the poison and saved our souls, how happy he is! For the sake of our well-being, he the Saviour is ready to sacrifice all his time, all his energy, his life itself. Ready to drink our poison, he the Lord joyously wears us-venomous cobras, full of sin and sinful tendencies-on the crown of his head, around his neck and his powerful arms. We become his ornaments, when he has drunk away our poison! That is the most favourite drink of Siva.

Ganges sprang out of Lord Siva's head; and Ganges-water is our favourite drink. For years during his Svarga-Ashram days Ganges-water was his milk, coffee, dhall, soup-everything-for he would merely soak dry bread in Ganges water and take. Even today, he likes Ganges water; and asks for fresh water, cold and nice.

Milk and fruit juices come next in order; and they sustain his divine physical sheath for us-for humanity's sake. This supreme embodiment of infinite patience, has not the patience to provide his overworked instrument-the body-with proper nourishment. Therefore, his devotees thought of the juice as a common friend that satisfied both; it didn't demand much of Siva's precious time, nor deny our prop (his body) the minimum material requirement.

Rasanam Rasatamam: the supreme essence of all essences, he drinks constantly. It is the nectar of jnana. He is the fountain-source of this nectar, being the Self or all. Uttering his sweet Name-Om Namah Sivanandaya-we, too, can share this drink with him.

21. Sivananda's Tonic

Our talents are his tonic. Our spiritual evolution is his sweetest elixir. Our determination to lead the divine life will make him dance in joy. Our growth in dispassion and discrimination gives him the greatest delight.

A young child repeating the Guru Stotra; a good Sadhak singing Siva's inspiring philosophical song; a pious family devoutly singing the Lord's Names; you and I sitting on Ganges bank in silent meditation-these are the tonics that instantly replenish him with inexhaustible energy. Give him a "dose" and see for yourself.

The buoyant body battered by persistent neglect and ceaseless overwork since his youth doesn't dare to strike work; his mighty will whipping the divine horse makes it gallop on and on. The all compassionate heart is least compassionate towards itself. The loving Lord who brings the whole world within the warmth of his embrace is cold and indifferent towards himself.

Very recently, doctors who happened to get the privilege of examining the blessed instrument of this incarnate divinity found a remedy. They appealed for his mercy upon themselves! They asked for his recognition of their talents. They prescribed some tonics for keeping up his physical strength. To satisfy them, he acceded to their request.

Chyavanaprash of the Sivananda Ayurvedic Pharmaceutical works and Sanatogen are the principal tonics he takes. Phospho-Lacithin and Multivite tablets, too, sometimes. What tonics are good for the cosmic benefactor who is the strength of the world? Our devout, ardent, heartfelt, and humble prayers to Him to live long, radiating the same bliss and peace that he has been radiating all these years of his most fruitful life on earth.

22. Sivananda's Heart

Sivananda's Heart is the Almighty's Compassion. It is the universal organ through which the cosmic life-blood of all beings flows, getting purified and infusing life in all beings. There are chambers, too, in this Great Heart: the Love chamber expands and into it flow the evil tendencies of everyone, drawn irresistibly by the divine impulse of His Sat-Sankalpa. The worldly man is received in the heart and then begins the wonderful process of transformation. The Divine Life Society (with ail its Branches) is a Great Lung. It contains innumerable air-cells (departments of divine activity) which purify everything that comes in their contact. Siva makes the worldly man take part in the Mission. Through selfless service to humanity, performed with Narayana-Bhav all impurities are burnt away and the person becomes divine. This saintly soul finds a place in Siva's Great Heart. He becomes one with Siva. He partakes of Siva's compassion and cosmic love. He carries Siva's life giving message to the entire world and vitalises all humanity with Divine Life.

A praiseworthy doctor at Trichinopaly examined Siva's heart, during his epochal All-India Tour in 1950, and declared that Siva was "suffering from a large heart". The sage's loving smile was eloquent enough a comment on this!

Col. Rikye and Major General A.N. Sharma have been astounded that in spite of such overwork, shouldering such responsibilities, and such neglect of physical needs, Siva's heart is perfect and very healthy. They know that Siva's large heart is the main source of his joy (and does not make him "suffer"!)

Every beat of this divine heart of Siva assures us that our salvation is his first concern.

23. Sivananda's Art

Siva's art is the expression of the beauty of his soul. There is in it no artificiality. His artless smile is the consummation of the divine art of radiating the Bliss of Self-realisation which fills his heart. The gracefulness with which he hands you the priceless gift of his inspiring books expresses several Bhavas at the same time-the Bhavas of humility, worshipful service, generosity and true magnanimity. His gait is majestic yet not proud; fast yet not clumsy; rhythmic yet not regimental; there is music in his walking.

Like the blossoming of the rose, like the joyous morn of the spring, and peaceful dawn of the day-Siva's art is part of divine nature. There it is in every detail of his daily habit. The way in which he ties the dhoti and the towel round his waist; the ease with which he gracefully adorns himself with muslin Angavastram (upper-cloth) or adjusts his gown. The way he takes a quick glance at his apparel before the ardent devotee clicks the camera to take a picture of the Creator's Master-piece, Siva's radiant form. The way in which he picks up a little of a devotee's offering, put it into his mouth and then dips his fingers in a bowl of water and wipes them with a towel. There is art in everyone of these every-day actions.

When he delivers a lecture, when he raises a finger in admonition or sweeps his arm in cosmic identification, when he throws up his hands and dances in ecstasy or with hands on his hips performs Nritya, there is inexpressible art in every movement of his limb.

While taking bath in the Ganga or while retiring to bed; or as he rests in bed with the left sole planted on it and the right ankle placed on the left knee, occasionally shaking the right foot-Oh, it is a joy to stand and watch him.

24. Sivananda's Mano-Vijnana

Siva's psychology is, unlike the Western psychologists', a practical recognition of the soul's supremacy over mind and intellect, and not a mere intellect's guess-work of the workings of the mind (which is the foundation of the ever-changing pattern of Western psychology). From his day-to-day actions, psychologists have great lessons to learn.

For the control of the mind, or augmenting the mind's power of perception and creative thinking, and for the purification of the mind, Siva gives a remarkable two-pronged weapon: discriminative reasoning to quell the turbulent mind, and Japa of the Lord's Name to let the latent soul-force transform the mental substance itself into a purer reflection of the Divine Light within.

Siva studies another person's mind, not with a finite intellect but with the all-penetrating microscope of his spiritual insight. In an instant, by a mere look, therefore, the other person's mind becomes apparent to him; and a volume can be written on the tactful way in which he deals with diverse people. Adapt, adjust, accommodate, he has said; and his dealings with all is an illustration on this.

Unlike the psycho-analysts of the West, Siva assures us that it is waste of time brooding over the past. "Positive overcomes the negative" is his emphatic assurance. Satsanga, Sankirtan and light unselfish service is the wonderful mixture he administers to the worst mental cases and as the patient recovers, Siva infuses healthy ideas into him, makes him do Japa and meditation. The past is completely forgotten and over the foundation of the Eternal Present a magnificent edifice of positive happiness, peace and power is erected, under the guidance of this master Psychologist, Siva.

The Divinity's Doctrine

25. Sivananda's Philosophy

Siva's philosophy can be compared only to Lord Krishna's. It has a place for all the philosophies of the world!

It recognises the Real and the unreal, and that which makes the unreal appears as Real. It awakens the worldly man, guides the Sadhaka, serves as a touchstone for a sage's realisation, and proclaims the Truth which transcends all these.

"The various religions of the world are the different viewpoints of the same Truth."

"Dvaita, Visishtadvaita, Advaita and Ajata-Vada are the progressive realisations of the Reality."

Siva's universal philosophy has in it a philosophy for every person. This itself proves that he is God Incarnate. He does not preach the same philosophy to two persons, but being their Antaryamin (Inner Ruler) knows the 'viewpoint' of each person and guides in a manner best calculated to effect the person's rapid spiritual evolution.

The fundamental principle of Siva's philosophy is that philosophy itself has the only purpose of providing the foundation for the spiritual endeavours of the Sadhaka. Therefore, Siva's philosophy is indistinguishable from his teachings: he is practical, dynamic and, therefore, leaves philosophical wranglings to spiritual bankrupts who delight in discussing the magnitude of unacquired wealth!

26. Sivananda's Doctrine

Siva has no doctrine of his own. He redelivers the divine message that has time and again been given to us by God. He speaks for God; for he is one with God. Yet, if we can audaciously read a doctrine into his teachings, it is "The Doctrine of a Little". It is otherwise known as the Yoga of Synthesis. Siva warns us that only the harmonious development of the entire being of man can take him easily to the goal. A weak spot anywhere in the structure would ruin the whole. Moreover, specialisation in any one branch of Sadhana would rob one of the spirit of understanding and tolerance, would breed contempt and hatred, and ultimately fatten one's egoism. Siva's "Doctrine of a Little" completely avoids all the pitfalls on the path and leads the Sadhaka along the smooth, easy, pleasant road to the Lord's Feet. Here is the Doctrine, in Siva's own words. He has put it in the form of a small song which can be sung in the Mahamantra tune. Siva himself sang this "Song of a Little" at every meeting he addressed during his all-India-Ceylon Tour in 1950:

Do Japa a little, do Kirtan a little,
Write Mantra a little, have Satsanga a little.

Do a little of each; you will have time for all. God-realisation is thus brought within your easy reach; and you are saved from the fear of a fall.

27. Sivananda's Creed

The fundamental article of Siva's creed is that Truth is universal. He has declared in unmistakable terms that the Truth can be realised through a diligent practice of the methods prescribed by any religion and by any of the Yogas. He does not want to abolish the variety in religions and in the Yogas, nor to unify all mankind under the banner of a Universal Religion. He sees the need for diversity to suit diverse minds and differences in the mental equipment and stage of evolution of individuals. He points out (to the philosophers and those who encourage and "feed" on such non-essential differences) that all the religions have the same Truth as their substratum, prop and goal.

In the matter of the Yogas, however, Siva exhorts the earnest aspirant to synthesise in his daily routine all that is best in all the approaches to self-realisation and practise the Yoga of Synthesis.

Siva affirms that God is both immanent and transcendent. Naught but God exists. While, therefore, God is the substratum for all that appears to be, He is not just that much: He transcends the mind and the intellect and that transcendental Being can only be realised by the sage in the highest super-conscious state.

The adoration of the Immanent Divinity is what Siva lays the greatest stress upon: service of humanity with cosmic love and a feeling that it is God that pervades every being here. When meditation is combined with this, Siva assures us that realisation of the transcendental Reality is only a matter of course.

The most joyous assurance Siva gives us is that God, "knowing" the evil that is rampant in Kali Yuga and the weaknesses that a human being is heir to in this age of Materialism, makes Himself more readily available to all than in previous Yugas: "a little Kirtan and meditation, service and Sadhana will enable you to realise Him here and now", Siva declares. His creed is the Word of God.

28. Sivananda's Ideals

Siva is the ideal for all sages and saints. Yet, in order to bring home to us the need for "ideals" to provide a pattern for our life, he has chosen some for himself!

Just as Lord Buddha did in days of yore, Siva promises that till the last of us is liberated from Samsara, he will continue to guide us and forego the personal delight of getting absorbed in the Infinite. It is our greatest good fortune that birth after birth we shall be his disciples and followers.

In forgiveness, Jayadeva is Siva's ideal. Jayadeva procured pardon and salvation for those who cut off his limbs. Siva's first prayers of the day are offered for the health, long life, peace, prosperity and enlightenment of those who consider themselves his adversaries.

In cosmic love, Ranti Deva is Siva's ideal. Who else could be such a perfect exemplar of the famous declaration of Ranti Deva:

I desire not kingdom, pleasure nor liberation.
I pray that the misery of the afflicted be relieved.

In forbearance, Siva's ideal is the Avanti Brahmin. Often he would refer to it in his talks. The story occurs in Bhagavata and illustrates the nature of the saint: he calmly endures all insults, dishonour and calumny. Siva turns a deaf ear to those who indulge in them and radiates cosmic love and divinity.

Lord Gauranga is Siva's ideal not only for the unrivalled zeal in the dissemination of Sankirtan-Bhakti-Yoga; but also for the great ideal embodied in the following Sloka, of which Gauranga and Siva have been the greatest examplars:

Lord Hari should be adored by one who is humbler
than the blade of grass, more forbearing than the tree,
free from vanity but who respects everybody.

29. Sivananda's Mottos

Serve, Love, Give, Purify, Meditate, Realise
Be good; do good; be kind; be compassionate.
Enquire "Who am I ?", know the Self and be free.

Adapt, adjust, accommodate;
Bear insult; bear injury; (this is the highest Sadhana).

Detach-attach, Detach-attach
Detach the mind from the objects.
Attach it to the Lord.

Nothing exists; nothing belongs to me;
I am neither mind nor body; Immortal Self I am.

Work is Worship;
Dedicate it to God.
Even this will pass away;
Balance your mind in pain and joy.

30. Sivananda's View Of Life

As with everything else, Siva's view of life is an analytical synthesis! A paradox that perplexes the pandit. But a conundrum that caters to the needs of everybody.

"Life is a mystery" he declares. Its origin and its end are enshrouded in a cloud of ignorance. The fleeting period in between is a mystery, too: otherwise, why should one man's life be so different from another's?

"Life here is the fruit of your past Karma", he says. Primordial ignorance prompts the Jiva to seek the bliss which is its own nature, in the outside objects. Good and bad actions that are performed in this quest have to return to him as pleasure and pain; to enjoy them he has to take birth here. Self-realisation fries the seed (Karma) and prevents rebirth.

"Life is a great blessing and gift of the Lord, to be utilised well in Sadhana to attain Self realisation," he asserts referring particularly to birth as human being. Neither the celestials nor the sub-human species can practise Sadhana and attain Him. Only man can. God's compassion has so arranged the Karmas that the gift of human birth could be bestowed on the Jiva.

"Life is an opportunity for the Jiva to recover Supreme Knowledge by selfless service, cosmic love, meditation and Self-realisation", proclaims Siva. It is waste of time arguing about the "why" and "wherefore" of life. It is wisdom to utilise the Present in such a way that Time itself could be conquered and immortality attained here and now.

Siva Himself views life from all the angles at the same time; and lives in the Consciousness which sanctions infinite views of life to suit different people at different stages of evolution. His philosophical view of life is that "Life is the indicator of Immortality. Man wants to live. No man wants to die. That itself shows that the Self is Immortal.

31. Sivananda's Way Of Life

Siva's way of life is the way paved by the great Avataras or incarnations of the Lord. He lives to relieve the aches of the human heart.

Siva's Life is an ever-green banyan which has its roots deep in the ageless earth. His ways are modern; but his ideals are ancient. He uses the most modern methods to re-deliver the message of the Maharshis of yore. Like the banyan, he has spread the cool shade of his life divine to give shelter to the whole world. This universal banyan, Siva the Cosmic Benefactor, has stuck deep roots in a hundred places all over the earth! He is ready to assimilate all that is good everywhere. He is the eternal student's way of life.

Siva's way of life is the royal road to the human heart. He is an unopposed reformer. By his splendorous personality, radiant smile, ready wits, inspiring books, gracious looks, thrilling letters, and tireless service, he wins the hearts of all into which he instils his ideals and implants his philosophy. This peerless sage of fearless; for he knows he is rooted in the Supreme Reality.

Siva's way of life is laid with the lustrous golden bricks of love and goodness. Righteousness is his breath; but love is his life; and service his very soul. Along the straight and narrow path of Yoga he leads mankind; but his broad heart and selfless love have smoothened and widened it considerably.

Siva's way of life is God's Reassuring Grace spread out before humanity. If we tread the path of Siva, his own life is the guarantee that we shall soon reach the goal. In the dark and dangerous, wilderness of worldly life, Siva's way of life is our luminous guide. "Lead, kindly light, lead thou me on".

32. Sivananda's Ethics

Siva is a reincarnation of Sage Vyasa, where his ethics are concerned. In his works he has treated elaborately of all aspects of ethics-social, personal, national etc. But the ethical principle that he holds dearest to himself and which he exemplifies in his daily life is this: "It is a great sin to harm others, to injure any being, to wound any one's heart, to think ill of anybody on earth or to insult or abuse anyone. It is a great virtue to serve others, to love others, to be good and to do good to all".

Siva's Sannyasin-disciple should selflessly and egolessly serve all and love all, meditate and strive to attain Self-realisation. He should be an embodiment of Ahimsa, Satyam and Brahmacharya.

Sivananda's lay-disciple should lead an ideal divine life, develop the heart through charity and service, grow in devotion through Sankirtan and worship of the Lord, serve saints and Sadhus, and serve humanity at large in every way possible.

A doctor should treat the poor free and even look to the comforts of his patients. The worst crime a doctor can commit, according to Siva is "to demand more fee when the patient is on the table". The doctor should serve the Lord in the patient.

An advocate should be thoroughly honest and truthful and plead for the poor, free.

A government official should work hard for the prosperity of mankind. "To take bribe is heaven-closing", says Siva.

A student should study his lessons well, and treat his parents and his preceptor with reverence due to Divinity.

A businessman should eschew greed from his transactions, serve the people, do a lot of charity and work for the minimum of profit.

Be good; do good-these four words sum up Siva's ethics. They are of universal application.

33. Sivananda's Teachings

The very cream of Siva's teachings, you will find in the following pages. On this, therefore, shall we peep into Siva's pulpit, to see with what weapon he drives his teachings into the very core of our heart? What a wonder, there at his holy feet we find our heart! He has stolen them. That, then, is the greatest secret. He steals our heart before talking to us or approaching us with his books. With the two universal arms of "Selfless Service" and "Universal Love" he embraces you and becomes one with you. Then a mere gaze would do to enlighten you.

The greatest sermon is his own divine life. Watchful eyes would see a scripture every second in his presence; his smiles are eloquent; and from his glittering eyes gushes forth Grace. The greatest lessons are contained in his life, which is an open book.

Love lends divine power to his words-spoken or written. Practicability characterises every precept. Practice is what he insists upon. He doesn't fail to warn you that theoretical wranglings invariably leave you dangling in mid-air, neither here nor there!

Through his writings he speaks to you; you see him before you when you read his books. Through his personal talks, he "wakes" you up; a few moments in his company most assuredly make you healthy, spiritually wealthy and wise. You are awakened to the glory of the Self, to the talents hidden in you, to the strength and the wisdom that you possess, and to the foundation of joy that waits within you to be tapped! Siva's teachings transform your life-beastiality yields to humanity and humanity is lifted up to Divinity.

34. Sivananda's Yoga

Siva's Yoga is the Yoga best suited to you. He is the Indweller of all and is, therefore, aware of our talents and difficulties. He does not ask us to change our religion, or relinquish our avocation in life. He makes us feel that we have already been practising Yoga; and that all that we have to do is to go on vigorously with it, adding a few details here and there! Mysteriously and miraculously, he supplies the vital need in us, divinises our life, and from where we are he leads us to God, making us feel all the time that we are going our own way and are not led by the ear by him.

Siva recognises that every man has his own religion, that there is a Yoga for each man. Therefore he has expounded all the religions of the world and all the Yogas that have so far been given to man. All of them have found their fulfilment in Sivananda Yoga. The sage of cosmic vision, cosmic love and cosmic consciousness has dealt with all Yogas, and given us their very essence in his writings. What is remarkable, however, is that while glorifying the particular Yoga, treated in a particular work, he has quietly slipped in a few vital factors belonging to other Yogas, thus bringing about a synthesis, with one speical Yoga predominant.

That in brief is Sivananda Yoga; the Yoga of Synthesis. He is emphatic that a lop-sided development of any aspect of the human personality is to be avoided. Everyone has a head, a heart and the hands; everyone thinks, feels and acts. In some one aspect is predominant and in others, another. Sivananda Yoga takes this into account, and is, therefore the Yoga for everyone.

35. Sivananda's Integral Sadhana

"Vedanta must come from within". "The Truths of the Upanishads must be realised in your inmost heart", says Siva. He does indeed encourage the threefold "Jnana Yoga practice, of hearing, reflection and meditation." But meditation is not an easy matter. You attempt to meditate now. The heart must be thoroughly purified and made steady, before real meditation is possible. It may take several births. But you should go on purifying the heart", says Siva. And, he places his own life as the most inspiring example.

Ceaseless, untiring, dynamic, selfless service, egolessly performed with Atman-bhava regardless of rewards, silently searching the heart for old, old Samskaras, and sublimating all feelings and emotions-this is the lesson that Siva's glorious life has for us. This is true Karma Yoga which takes us to the threshold of the Kingdom of Sivanandam, the realm of all auspiciousness and Supreme Bliss.

At the same time, constant remembrance of the Lord's Name, Japa and Sankirtan, seeing, greeting, and loving God in all, and thus living in perpetual God-consciousness-this the Bhakti Yoga that Siva's attitude teaches us. This lends the strongest foundation of Sivananda Yoga, the greatest momentum to our march, the best purifying agent for our heart.

Asanas and Pranayama to keep the body and nerves healthy; study of sacred scritpures and meditation to maintain mental alertness and keenness of vigilant discrimination-these are part of Siva's own daily routine.

This is the Sadhana, Siva assures us that if we are earnest and sincere, we can attain Self-realisation with in the twinkling of the eye. "The Vedantic aroma will waft around you, and you will radiate peace, bliss and love. You need not advertise; everyone will know you are a sage."

36. Sivananda's Sociology

Siva's Sociology is based on the doctrine of the unity of humanity. He does not stop with "Do as you would be done by" motto. Though he lays great stress on "Be good; do good", yet he points out that goodness is the gateway to God who dwells in all.

Thus, in politics, Siva regards patriotism as a stepping-stone (on which the patriot shall not pause, however) to universalism. God is the father of all mankind; the entire universe is the Fatherland, devotion to which marks Siva's patriot. Man is not bound by boundaries: "break down the walls that separate man from man by cultivating cosmic love and spirit of selfless service", says Siva.

Siva's economics is a headache to auditors and accountants. To him theft and cheating may be a moral mistake, but not a financial loss! Extravagance might mar the spirit of simplicity in the seeker, but is not as bad as hoarding. Indiscriminate charity is a great virtue in his eyes. Siva's economics gives the right place to wealth, as the slave of man and not as his master.

Siva's society is one in which every person is free to express one's talents, pursue one's aspirations, grow in goodness, serving one another and bound by the strongest invisible chords of cosmic love. He recognises the infinite diversity of men's minds and, therefore, exalts adaptability, forbearance and understanding as the greatest among virtues.

Siva's Ashram itself is a bold experiment in Siva's ideals in sociology. It is well worth the study of the sociologists of tomorrow, who would like to lay the foundations of an enduring social order uniting the whole world in a common bond of brotherhood.

37. Sivananda's Courage

Siva's courage is not like a Dictator's daring, warrior's valour or hillmen's heroism. It is the inevitable fruit of his identity with Truth. He knows what is good and what is not; because he is the Supreme Good. Hence he is undaunted by undermining influences. In every case he has always proved he was right!

In Malaya, his friends felt that he didn't know how to "enjoy life". He stuck to his righteous ways of self-restraint. Today while they lead a life of misery, his is a life of glory.

As a Sadhu in Svargashram, he used to carry with him four cloth-bags wherever he went. They contained: medicines, fruits, spiritual literature, and writing material (note-book, etc.,). The first three for distribution to any-one he might meet while walking along the road, and the fourth for recording sublime thoughts as they occurred. "Great" Sadhus would whisper among themselves that Siva was carrying a household with him! Service has today enthroned Siva in the heart of humanity and even they who mocked at him meekly bow down to him in reverence.

During his propaganda tours, Siva danced and sang Kirtan. Sannyasins belonging to the Sankara School of Advaita Vedanta, with their little heads laden with ill-digested philosophy, jeered at him. Siva didn't mind and he didn't retaliate either. They are today his unacknowledged followers! Though late in their career, they, too, have begun to sing His Names in sweet Sankirtan.

Siva, the Prophet of the New Age, has a provision of the shape of things to come. He has the supreme courage to give a hold to humanity along the road to Divinity.

38. Sivananda's Miracles

Devotees of Siva, all over the world, have recounted the astounding experiences they have had of the divine powers of Bhagavan Sivananda; how he appeared in their dream and gave them wholesome advice, how they saw him in a vision and got his blessings, how he saved them from calamity and healed them of their illness. These experiences have been published in a number of volumes issued by the Forest Academy.

Even to a great Yogi, space and time are no great impediments. If the X-ray can see through flesh and the meteorological instruments can probe into the weather of tomorrow, what cannot the spiritually enlightened mind of a Yogi do? Clairvoyance, thought transference, distance healing, etc., are so commonplace with Siva that he might not even be aware of them!

The conduct of the Divine Life Society's affairs is a great miracle. Without a budget, without a reserve fund, without a bank balance and without a regular source of income, to run a big institution on such a lavish scale is a miracle.

To recruit everyone with the least inclination and lesser qualification into his fold and to transform everyone into a saintly personality without the rigours of austerity of regimented life of Sadhana; that is a miracle of the highest order.

To sit in his simple Kutir on the banks of the Ganga in a corner of the Himalayas and to spread the light of divine knowledge to the four corners of the world, to let his life-transforming message resound in every nation of the world-this is the greatest miracle of this all-pervading Divinity who appears before us as Swami Sivananda.

Immortal Words Of Infinite Wisdom

39. Sivananda's Pen

Siva's Pen is Lord Krishna's Flute and Lord Rama's Arrow. The music that issues from It is enchanting, but it pierces our hearts and destroys our evil desires without our knowledge and in spite of ourselves. That is why the hollow fountain-pen has a sharp nib.

Ink is poured into the barrel of the pen; but Siva's touch converts it into spiritual manna. It is distributed to the whole world. Even if it is a mere signature on the fly-leaf of a book, at the close of a typed letter, or on an official receipt, a look at it fills your heart with joy, mind with peace and soul with Divine Light.

Siva has, not one, but several pens. "D.I.N.-Do It Now"-he has dinned into our ears. He does so. The moment a thought comes to his mind, it must be recorded and shared with the whole world. The instruments of transmission must be ready at hand. It is because he has so zealously gathered the precious pearls from the depths of his Realisation, that we are so rich today.

The warrior's riffle, and the "Big" Power's Bombs (Atomic and Hydrogen) cannot stand before Siva's Pen. The Hand that wields the Pen belongs to a Sage; the rifle is in the hands of a slave, and the bombs are used by benighted souls.

Blessed is the Pen for it is ever in the grip of Siva's Divine Hands. Let us pray that we too might be in his grip; then is our salvation assured. Blessed is the Parker Company; for it has provided Siva with his Pen.

May we all keep our hearts as clean as the paper on which Siva's Pen writes, so that Siva might inscribe on the tablet of our hearts his Divine Name which spells Liberation.

40. Sivananda's Style Of Writing

Siva, the incarnation of patience, tolerance, endurance and love, is extremely impatient with himself. He can not serve humanity enough, fast enough and well enough-to his own satisfaction! He is impatient to reach out to every man and woman in the world, awaken everybody and enable everybody to attain Moksha this very second. This secret is revealed in the style of his writing.

Truth, the whole Truth and nothing but the Truth is given in every sentence, which the moment you turn to it, passes a death-sentence on the ignorance in your heart. Siva does not mince words, beats about the bush, indulge in arguments, or parade his pedantry. He offers you not a paper garland of flowery words, but a fragrant garland of Atmic flowers. Every paragraph of his book drives you-not to your dictionary-but to the meditation room, to start the practice then and there.

Siva is not a spiritual book-seller, asking you to "see my Hatha Yoga for the Asanas, Science of Pranayama for the breathing exercises and Health and Long Life for instructions on diet". Every book is perfect and complete in itself, sufficient to lead a neophyte to the highest rungs of the spiritual ladder.

Easy, lucid and understandable; direct, forceful and fiery; Siva's style is characterised by the clarity of sage's realisation, the authority of an Avatara's utterances, the commiseration of a cosmic benefactor.

Siva's is the sovereign style: overwhelming in its power to win your heart, and from there to conquer your mind and eradicate your undivine Vasanas and Samskaras.

41. Sivananda's Letter

Siva's letter is a spiritual awakener. Your problems, whatever they are, solved in simple, straight forward and to-the-point sentences. But Siva never stops with that. Remember: he is a doctor of body, mind and soul. He alleviates pain, heals the ailment, and at the same time shows you the way to avoid it. His letter shares this characteristic.

The very first line, the mode of his address, is a supreme lesson in Vedanta. "Beloved Atman" "Glorious Immortal Atman" "Adorable Self"-thus he reminds you that you are not this body or mind, but the all-pervading Immortal, Satchidananda Atma. The subscription, besides re-affirming this truth reveals the secret of Siva's extraordinary divine love for us and the reason for his abiding and deep interest in us. He is "Thy own Self-Sivananda".

Only Siva can infuse deep and divine love into language. His peremptory instructions are perfumed with the soul-elevating aroma of a love that commands our implicit obedience. His straight notes acquire mellifluous melody and always gladden the heart of the recipient. Selfless love that is interested only in our spiritual evolution, sparkles in every sentence. Siva's soul seems to pray to you to wake up from the slumber of nescience. Ah, what solicitude! What positive encouragement breathes in every line! Never is a criminal condemned, nor a sinner scorned. They (we) are his special wards.

Whether the letter be simple acknowledgement of something received or a reminder of work to be done, it always contains, whether you asked for it or not, some grand, elevating thought. It is a great joy and an inspiration to receive Siva's letter.

42. Sivananda's Aphorisms

1. Work elevates when done in the right spirit without agency, attachment and expectation of fruits.

2. Even scavengering when done with the right mental attitude is a Yogic activity for realisation.

5. Keeping up Brahma Bhava While practising Karma Yoga is more difficult than pure Jnana Yoga.

6. To serve humanity, while living in the world is superior to a life of seclusion in a cave.

8. The whole world is bound to work with one who feels himself one with the world.

9. Only he who is unselfish and devoid of Moha for the body can do real Karma Yoga.

10. The Karma Yogi purifies his heart through constant selfless or disinterested service.

11. A special power comes from God to those who have a pure and steady love to humanity.

12. The more you spend your energy in elevating others, the more Divine energy will flow to you.

13. Aspirants of the present day lack in the spirit of service and the burning love for the Lord.

14. The world abounds with people who show some kind of lip-sympathy or vague shallow sympathy.

15. The spirit of service must deeply enter into your very bones, cells, tissues and nerves.

16. A real Karma Yogi does not make any difference between menial and respectable work.

43. Sivananda's Andadi

Andadi is a poetic style in Tamil: in which the first word of a stanza is the last word of the previous one.

SERVE thy Guru with Bhava, the humanity with humility, so that thy physical sheath may be cleansed and entering the vital, thou canst develop and radiate the divine virtue of LOVE.

LOVE the creation entire, so that thy ego may melt and dissolve; and thus freed from the bondage of the vital, thou canst proceed to PURITY.

PURIFY the "mental" by study of scriptures, Satsanga and service to thy Guru, only in order that thy "ego" may utterly dissolve and thou wilt be qualified to MEDITATE.

MEDITATE on the teachings of the Guru, on the sacred utterances of the scriptures, so that thou wilt REALISE.

REALISE thine own true nature, that Thou art That, that thy true being is Existence-Consciousness Bliss Absolute.

Patience is the prerequisite for Self-realisation.
Self-realisation is the fruit of meditation.
Meditation succeeds concentration.
Concentration is the result of practice.
Practice leads to awareness.
Awareness is a conscious state of Being.
Being is Para Brahman.

44. Sivananda's Sayings

15. Good and bad, friend and enemy, pleasure and pain, virtue and sin are in the mind only.

17. Patience, perseverance and vital will are indispensable for reaching the goal.

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