T Ram Sewak

PAROPKAR

Kakabhushundiji answers Garuda's fourth question, in Shri Ramcharitmanas 7.121, "What are the natural characteristics and behaviours of noble souls (sant) and the wicked (asant)?" He states:

Paropakar kaya, sant khagaraya

Sant lagi, Par abhagi

"Altruism in thought, word and deed is the innate disposition of the saints. They willingly endure suffering for the good of others, while the unfortunate wicked cause suffering to others."

The first attribute of the sants that Kakabhushundiji highlights is their inherent beneficence and selflessness. For the sants, altruism or enduring suffering for others is neither forced nor calculative; it is part of their nature, an expression of their being. Thus, on the spiritual path, sadhaks must cultivate compassion, selflessness, and service to others until these qualities become effortless dispositions.

Shri Krishna teaches us in Gita 3.25 that wise men act without attachment, wishing for the world's welfare. Furthermore, in Gita 5.25, He declares that those Rishis who are self-controlled and focused on the welfare of all attain Moksh (liberation). In Gita 12.4, He asserts that those yogis who rejoice in the welfare of all verily come unto Him.

However, true selflessness is not within everyone's reach. Only sants who are free from desires and are inwardly fulfilled (poorankaam) are capable of true altruism. Their hallmark is the harmony of their thought, speech, and action, so truth (satya) shines forth within them. Any discord among them signals subtle selfishness or deception, i.e. traits of an asant.

The sants endure suffering for the good of others, not out of any weakness but from divine strength the strength of a compassionate, loving, yet detached heart. In contrast, the asants are filled with desires, ego, and selfishness. They actively inflict harm and suffering on others, even when they stand to gain nothing, revealing signs of spiritual poverty.

In essence, Kakabhushundiji teaches us another form of Bhakti/Karma Yoga: Snehyukta (compassionate), Swarthrahit (selfless) Sewa (service) for Sarvahit (benefit of all)! / DAILY WORLD /

The author is a former electrical Engineer and resides in the Himalayas. He can be occasionally reached at ramam.namami@gmail.com