Last time when we discussed the very first objective of the Study Group i.e. to develop an inquiring and reflective mind, we understood how listening, reflections and meditation are the three steps that comprise the study of Advaita Vedanta.
Now we come to the 2nd Objective- Strengthening FAITH and DEVOTION
Without faith in the Self, in the teaching, and in the teacher, progress is impossible. Beliefs change but faith does not. In fact, belief transforms into faith when reinforced with conviction and clarity.
Blind faith is dangerous, for it is liable to be shaken by a strong personality or an untoward experience in life.
The Study Group, which encourages multiple views and counterviews on a given topic, is the platform for testing one’s convictions. Once doubts have been dispelled and clarity has been achieved, then alone is the individual free from confusions and uncertainties.
Being part of a Study Group enables a deep connection with the Guru through his commentaries and observations. Connecting with the Guru’s words is creating the deeper and lasting ties with the Guru; for the Guru is that knowledge which enables one to reach deep within and find oneself; and it is that knowledge to which one must be completely devoted. .
As Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda describes: “Study alone is not enough; there must be practice. Think of the great ideas constantly. Compare the way you have been living and the ideal you have. Feel ashamed of the disparity between the two. The courage and strength to live up to what you aspire to must come from within you. Nobody else can do this for you.”
Soon, a time will come when enviable self-control and admirable self-discipline will become your inherent nature.