PHILOSOPHY,
INTELLECTUALISM, AND RATIONALISM - PURE
BHAKTI AND SPIRITUALITY Philosophies
deal with theories but mysticism deals
with reality. The Masters do not relish its advocacy as it is simply a
speculation within the domain of mind whereas spirituality is the science of
the soul. I
have noted your comments for the Satsang talks when you do not find any
nourishing food intellectually in these meetings. You will please note that
spiritual progress by inner development of your consciousness far excels intellectual
attainments. There is a great difference between head and heart. Love of God is
the essence of higher spiritual life, and it evolves in the heart full of
ennobling virtues. The
Path of the Masters, known as Surat Shabd Yoga is not to be confused with
Bhakti Yoga, as limited to the emotions. Inferences, feelings, and emotions. Inferences,
feelings, and emotions are all subject to error; seeing is above all. This path
is a practical one. Unless you live a pure, chaste life -- as enjoined in the
booklet "Seven Paths to Perfection" -- you will not unfold the
spiritual side of your nature that is at present lying dormant within you. I
hope you take it in the right spirit when I say that you should first ascertain
the full potential of the teachings of the path that you have been put on
before looking elsewhere. Once
you live the spiritual life in the practical way, rise above the body
consciousness and meet the radiant form of the Master within, you will then
begin to appreciate that pure Bhakti only begins when one has surrendered one's
mind and intellect to the Master, and gives implicit obedience to His
commandments. "If ye love me, keep my commandments", Christ said. God
is love and we can only truly worship Him in love. But this love is not of the
emotions. It is a love of complete self-surrender and as such demands
discipline and obedience. I hope you now understand what is meant by Bhakti in
its pure and pristine form. You
are correct in your assumption that the Path of the Masters is the path of pure
Bhakti. The pearl of divine knowledge can be preserved securely in the casket
of bhakti, or loving devotion. Bhakti in its pure and pristine form is Love
Divine. |