T Ram Sewak

SHUDDH ANTAH KARAN

Kakabhushundiji continues the metaphor while elucidating the Gyan Marg (Path of Knowledge) to Garuda in Shri Ramcharitmanas 7.117. He says,

tei gayi, bhav penhayi.

noi bisvasa nirmal dasa

"Milk begins to flow when the cow (Sattvik Shraddha) is united with her newly-born calf of love/devotion (Prem/Bhav). Then, use detachment (Nivriti) as the cord by which her hind legs are tied (to milk her), have belief/trust (Vishwas) as the milk pot, and a pure mind (Nirmal Mann), which is under control, as the milker."

Kakabhushundiji explains that when this cow (Sattvik Shraddha) is nourished, i.e. Japa (muttering prayers), Tapa (austere penance), and other spiritual practices are performed with enthusiasm, then a feeling of love/devotion (Bhav) shall sprout in the sadhak's heart, and the inner feelings become purified. This purified state of the heart is akin to the calf of the faith cow. The objective is to obtain Shudhh Antah Karan (pure inner being). This is a crucial step in the sadhak's journey because Shri Krishna assures us in Gita 7.21 that whatever form any devotee desires to worship with faith, that same faith of his, He makes it firm and unflinching.

Shudhh Antah Karan is essential for spiritual growth, and Kakabhushundiji emphasises its importance. When emotions are purified, attachment to worldly things diminishes naturally, leading to mental clarity and self-control. This pure and disciplined mind is the medium for faith and spiritual development, while an impure or uncontrolled mind leads to spiritual downfall. This pure mind strengthens your Vishwas in Him, which arises from within and is considered the foundation for further spiritual development.

So, the journey so far is: Have Sattvik Shraddha in your heart for Him and strengthen it through the spiritual practices of japa, tapa, etc. Then, a purified mind develops that can catalyse detachment and self-control. Use this as a support system, and strengthen your

belief in His grace! / DAILY WORLD /

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