Charnarvind Dhyan

CHARNARVIND DHYAN CHARNARVIND DHYAN An explanatory treatise on holy Lotus-feet marks of FIRST EDITION Shri Hari August, 2014 based on sacred text CHINHA CHINTAMANI COPIES by 2,000 Nishkulanand Swami PRICE ` 50/-

TRANSLATION Prof. Madhusudan Vyas

PRINTER Kavya Printers Amdavad

PUBLISHED BY Shri Swaminarayan Bhagwan Kala Kendra Trust Inspiration Jnan Baug, Vadtal, Ta. Nadiad, Dist. Kheda Kanji Bhagat Gujarat, India - 387 375 Jnan Baug, Vadtal. www.harismruti.com of Lord Swaminarayan. By this connection with the lotus-feet the Master-servant bondage is consolidated, and that is the essence of all sacred scriptures. The person who realizes the deep meanings of the marks on the lotus-feet of Lord Swaminarayan, is considered as a sensible person. He gets all types of happiness. When he leaves his material body, his soul ascends to the PREFACE level of Brahman-hood and there is no doubt that he rises up to enter in the service divine of Lord Ahstang Yoga is a wholesome tool Swaminarayan. with limitless modes, In this booklet we have included the significant To contemplate Feet of Shri Hari, description of the sacred marks on the lotus-feet is the advice for all. of Lord Swaminarayan. This description is based By coveting the Feet of Shri Hari, on "CHIHNA CHINTAMANI" an inspiring volume Sensible seeker can get boundless happiness. written by Nishkulanand Swami. We hope that After leaving the body, the reading, remembering, reiteration and doubtlessly attains Brahman-hood. contemplation of the contents of this booklet will inspire spontaneous, unconditional love for the - Premanand Swami idol of Lord Swaminarayan. After completing the practice of Ashtang Yoga (eight-fold yoga) penance and sacred deeds, Jnan Baug - Vadtal there remains live connection with the lotus feet Charnarvind Dhyan redeemed souls with supreme gaiety in that eternal Akshardham. How is Lord Swaminarayan Who is worshipped by us with profound devotion? And what is His grandiose? If these matters become clear before practising His devotion, that devotion will be very strengthening for our souls. In the evening prayer Premanand Swami says – we should humbly pray God, “O Lord Swaminarayan! || CHARNARVIND DHYAN || Let me attain Your absolute devotion coupled with the divine knowledge of Your grandiose.” The idol of Lord Swaminarayan is coupled with welfare-causing CONTEMPLATING HIS DIVINE FOOT-SOLES qualities, but the same welfare lies in His lotus-feet also. There are sixteen holy marks on His lotus foot- soles. The devotee who contemplates them attains supreme peace. As the feet of Shri Hari are welfare- I bow my head to touch the dust of Lord causing the Nand saints have composed various Sahajanand's feet where reside all pilgrim-spots, an Mangalacharans (auspicious beginning prayers) at auspicious abode which fulfil all desires and destroys the beginning of their scriptures; and many of these all inauspicious matters. The same holy dust is always Mangalacharanas begin with the appreciation of adoringly put on their heads by Brahma etc. gods and Charanraj (the holy dust of feet). Here are a few of Munis, and is being prayed extensively by them as given under : Sheshnarayan with thousand faces, in the company of Shuka, Sharada and Narad. It spreads imperishable I bow to the moon-nailed feet of Lord Sahajanand radiance which can match innumerable crore of suns Good and peerless heart-scient, Sahajanand Swami, and moons. That is the super dust of feet which is Holding the dust of His feet on my head, collectively adored and worshipped by crore of While holding Shri Ghanashyam in my heart” 5 6 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan Muktanand Swami too, writes in Arati : such competent Lord of Premanand Swami, so now I fold my hands to bow to Your lotus-feet my mind will not go anywhere else except His lotus- All pains are destroyed as I put my head at Your feet. feet. If devotion is offered to Lord Swaminarayan with Jay Sadguru Swami such intense and firm faith, that devotion will bring In this way the lotus-feet of Shri Hari and the great happiness to us. dust of His feet are frequently referred to by the Nand The contemplation of Lord Swaminarayan's saints. In the above Mangalacharan lines explaining lotus-feet is the best means which confirms the the importance of the lotus-feet and the dust of the servant-master feeling and confirms the maturity of feet of Shri Hari, Premanand Swami says that the soul our goal. of the person who comes in relation with the dust of Therefore every follower in the Holy Fellowship the feet of Shri Hari becomes the residence of all sings Swami Premananda's lyric on contemplation of pilgrim spots. The lotus-feet of Shri Hari are the lotus-feet. There are eight numbers of lyrics, source of all pervasive welfare and are the destroyer describing every limb of Lord Swaminarayan, but it of inauspicious matters fulfils the noble desires of all starts with the prayer of lotus-feet. the followers. Deities like Brahma etc. put the dust of This lyric is being sung everyday in every temple His feet on their heads every day. The praise of Lord and every Satsangi's residence. But we find some Sahajanand Swami is being sung in the abodes of awkwardness in the speed of singing and the feelings deities also. while singing it. While singing the feeling is to finish it speedily and mechanically. But in reality we should With extreme pleasure countless crores of remember each mark while singing and understand liberated souls worship the feet of Lord Shri the importance of each mark. The contemplation of Swaminarayan in the imperishable abode - these marks controls the rushing force of internal Akshardham which is radiant with the light similar to enemies. For this reason we will try to understand the the light of crores of suns and moons. Supreme Lord implied meaning of all the marks. So we should Shri Swaminarayan, the Supreme Purusha, the cultivate the feeling and the method of singing resident of the imperishable abode is the inspirer and appropriate to the lyric. controller of Kaal and Maya. I have been able to attain Premanand Swami says : 7 8 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan Come closer, Oh Shyam, my love, my heart, The left foot of Shree Bhagwan, Allow me a closer look of Your majestic mien; Has these seven holy marks: I shall carefully imprint, The Triangle, the Pitcher and the holy cow-foot, That vision in my soul. 1 The Bow, the Fish, the Half-Moon, Your lovely limbs have marks divine, And the Sky with auspicious stars. 8 In my mind I lovingly cherish; The lucky devotee who sees, Those auspicious marks, These holy marks will win the love; from Your crown to toe. 2 Of our Lord Who also bears, Your feet are like the lotus pink, A special mark on the right toe-nail. 9 that dances in the Sun; And the black beauty spot, I shall hold those feet, On His big toe’s upper side, Always in my memory. 3 Says Premanand the poet that; And I shall in prayer recall, He would stake his life to win, All those sixteen marks; The love of this Lord Divine. 10 Between the big toe and the second, The devotee-cum-poet who has composed this In Your right foot, my Lord. 4 lyric addresses the Lord as Vhala (dear to me) at the Runs that long auspicious line, end of every line. It suggests that this lyric should be Right to Your lustrous heel; sung comprehended and realized in the heart with Dear to Your devotees, perfect adoration for Lord Swaminarayan. Any Enumerating all these marks. 5 connection with God through this lyric is not possible Keeps mind pure and free from the thrall, without emotional bondage. The Swami has used Of base lust and dreams; such words in the lyric which would necessitate The Octagon and the long auspicious Line, proper emotional state of mind which is essential for The Swastik, the Blue fruit, the Barley-grain. 6 proper contemplation. The Thunder-bolt and the elephant goad, The divine flag and the lustrous lotus, “With extreme care I will thread words (like These nine are the marks divine, flowers) into my soul.” Of course to make a garland, On the right right foot of the Lord. 7 the word extreme care includes carefulness and 9 10 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan alertness. “Let me thread them into my soul” means it of Shri Hari was cremated and there he extended the suggests concentration and awareness of mind. So services with his material body; and there he adorably this lyric should be read out or sung with extreme placed the lotus-feet of Shri Hari engraved by care, concentration and awareness of mind. Nishkulanand Swami. Swami saw the marks with his Further, my mental inclination runs to the eyes, engraved them on black stone and also contemplation of the holy marks. The singing of this composed a small volume on it which is entitled as holy lyric should not be a compulsory exercise given CHINHA CHINTAMANI, in which a brief but accurate as homework to a school-going child; but it should be definition of the marks along with their description believed that my mind has been motivated and my has been given. Let us try to understand the same . liking and curiosity are hungry of contemplation. If with this type of sentiment the lyric is sung, the contemplation of lotus feet would become easy and natural. This is all about the status of mind while singing the lyric. But what is the significance of each mark on Shri Hari's feet (sole) and how does each inspire – this has been explicitly explained by Nishkulanand Swami in his holy lyric CHINHA CHINTAMANI. If this lyric is sung after its proper understanding and realization, its real meaning can be visualized. After Shriji Maharaj left for His own abode Nityanand Swami thought to himself, “I read out holy scriptures before Shriji Maharaj, pleased Him with the interpretation of Shastras but I have not been able to put my material body in His service!” So he got a temple built at Laxmiwadi in Gadhada where the body 11 12 Charnarvind Dhyan On the right foot of Lord Swaminarayan there is Swastik mark which is the symbol of auspiciousness, welfare and richness. Everyone who took shelter in the feet of Lord Swaminarayan got their life full of auspicious events full of welfare. Therefore, Muktanand Swami says : Great deities like Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh worship the feet of the Master (Guruji). Brahman-like liberated souls serve the Master. Even the fallen souls like pigs, dogs and donkeys take shelter in the Lord's 1 feet they become one with Brahman by worshipping Lord Swaminarayan. The deities like Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh and Brahman-like liberated souls worship the auspicious feet of Lord Swaminarayan. If the souls trapped by lust and anger living the life of pig, dog and donkey; take shelter in the feet of Lord Swaminarayan they can become one with Brahman. The Swastik is the symbol suggesting the welfare–causing auspicious quality of Lord Swaminarayan. It covers all four sides and SWASTIK suggests all pervasive and perennial welfare.

Nishkulanand Swami writes in 'Chinha Chintamani' Saints appreciate Swastik (sacred cross), a clear mark appearing on the right foot-sole, which is a source of total welfare. 13 14 Charnarvind Dhyan There are eight angles of Octagon, in the same way on this earth there are four directions – east, west, north and south and there are four corners – North-east, South-east, South-west and North-west. In this way the evil effect of Kaal spreads in all the eight directions. If one contemplates the octagon mark on the feet of Shri Hari he is saved from the evil forceses of Kaal which are always painful. The best place to save oneself from the terror of Kaal is in the feet of Lord Swaminarayan. By cultivating such sense 2 and understanding one can connect his soul with the idol of Shri Hari. One can save himself from the clutches of Kaal and gets his heart full of happiness. So Muktanand Swami writes in Vivek Chintamani : There is terror of Kaal for all unto 14 universes, If one stays in the service of Hari; the Kaal will not engulf him, so says Muktanand. This statement emerges directly from the personal experience of Muktanand Swami. It was ASHTAKON midnight time and Muktanand Swami was contemplating by singing while sitting at one place, By watching the Octagon (on the sole), and suddenly the Kaal with his horrible figure came crores of pains are destroyed; and stood there at a distance. So Muktanand Swami asked “Who are you? And what do you want to do the Kaal (death) cannot kick, here?” He replied, “I am the Kaal and I have been and pleasure overflows the heart. hungry for many days. I am here to eat a man.” 15 16 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan Muktamuni thinking of unexpected troubles said, fine. So Dada Khachar and his family arranged for best “You go away from here immediately. If Shri Hari food. All the saints were called and offered food. comes to know of your arrival, you will be punished.” Thus, Muktamuni attempted the remedy to send the So Kaal went away from there. Kaal back. Such richness and competence had come But an idea entered the mind of Muktamuni to Muktanand Swami due to the power of the shelter that Kaal has gone back today but if alms and in Shri Hari's feet. donations are given after him, he may feel satisfied. Mukta says Kaal does not engulf him, Being an ascetic himself what would he do? He took a who serves Shri Hari's feet. vow, “Dinner should be arranged for saints. One cloth The clutches of the cobra called Kaal spread be given to Brahmin, a cow worth rupees 5/- should unto 14 worlds and destroys all, but he cannot defeat be given and a food-plate should be offered to Shriji the devotees of Lord Swaminarayan. In this way the Maharaj.” Then he went back to his meditation. two elements – protection from Kaal and pleasure of heart – are included when one remembers the mark Next morning as he was free from his daily of Ashtakon i.e. Octagon. While remembering rituals, there came Mukund Brahmachari whom he Octagon it should be firmly convienced that Lord offered a seat. Then he told him about the Swaminarayan protects me at every place and every appearance of Kaal and his vow for pacifying him. moment. I contemplate on the Octagon in the feet of Then he did the Puja of Brahmachari, offered him a Lord Swaminarayan who brings ever lasting pleasure bed-sheet and then asked him to offer food-plate to in my heart. Shriji Maharaj and said, “you also have the food.” Brahmachari replied, “as you wish.” And he went from there. On his way Shriji Maharaj met him. Shriji Maharaj asked “Where are you coming from today after being worshipped? “So Brahmachari talked about appearance of the Kaal back. Shri Hari told him that everyone has been protected so let the food be 17 18 Charnarvind Dhyan The contemplation of the (Ketu) Flag – mark on the feet of Shri Hari inspires and benefits the devotee. As the flag keeps on fluttering and powered by wind, the real saints and devotees should remain under the commands of Lord Swaminarayan. One who follows God's words His words are followed by all. During Shriji Maharaj's stay in Gadhada, on a rainy and cyclonic day in monsoon time, the roofing tile slipped a little, and water began to leak in the room in which Shriji Maharaj was relaxing. Shriji 3 Maharaj called out but there was no one. Dada Khachar suddenly came there Shriji Maharaj said “Dada, put this tile in the proper gap” but the tile was at a height where Dada could not reach. Understanding the situation He said, “Dada, keep your leg on my shoulder and repair the roof.” Dada also thought “Water-leakage will spoil the God's chamber and how can I reject the order of Shriji Maharaj?” So Dada Khachar put his leg on Shriji's shoulder and began to repair the leakage spot. KETU Eventually Jiva Khachar who happened to pass from there saw this scene and spoke “Hello Dada! What are you doing? One should not put his leg on God's Ketu stands for the saint, shoulder, you will have to go to the worst hell.” To this as flag's movement is controlled by wind; Dada Khachar replied, “O Jiva Bapu! If I have to visit great saints also act, the worst hell seven times I am ready for it, if only I get as per order of the Master (God). a chance to obey my Lord Swaminarayan's order.” 19 20 Charnarvind Dhyan By the sincerest obedience of Dada Khachar, Shriji Maharaj was overwhelmed and He told Jiva Khachar, “O Khachar! you hesitated to put your leg on my shoulder but you have placed your foot on my tongue. What of that!” Listening to these words all understood the real meaning of the obedience of the commands of Shriji Maharaj. So that person is benefitted who acts as per Shri Hari’s commands. So this was about Ketu or flag which symbolizes firm obedience of orders. Ketu represents omni-potence of the Lord and obeison of 4 His sacred commands. Now let us turn to the fourth one 'Java'.

JAVA

The persons who contemplate on Java-mark, any pain or misery does not touch them; Their brain gets happiness, and heart gets limitless pleasure. 21 22 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan The grain of Java (Barley) is the symbol of purity wander and should be sacrificed into the fire of and sacredness, for that reason it is used as sacrificial Brahman and this is called Yoga-Yajna; and while material. The contemplation of Java in the foot of Shri practicing this Yoga-Yajna the devotee gets the Hari inspires in us the principle and ideal of Yajna Darshan of God. In such soul identified with Brahman theory. It means the fire of Brahman element is there manifests Lord Parabrahma Purushottam; and burning in our soul and the subjects of senses should this is the fruit of Yoga-Yajna.” be sacrificed in that fire. All the actions of senses So contemplation of Java-mark expresses the should be used in the service of God and in the concept of the material for Yagna i.e. sacrifice in Yoga- devotion of God. This can help us to confirm our Yajna. As Java is offered in Yajna we should also offer devotion. The movements of mind and intellect are to the java in the form of ten senses and the mind as be centralized in the soul first and then if one eleventh in the Yogayajna described by Lord meditates upon the the idolresiding in the soul, the Swaminarayan. So Java is important to bring to us the force of Maya cannot harm the soul. He becomes Darshan of Lord Swaminarayan. Now Nishkulanand absolute devotee whose soul remains untouched by Swami tells about fifth mark – Ankush. any sin. The soul of such devotee is enlightened and at the center of that light he get the Darshan of the blissful form of Lord Swaminarayan and therefore the mind of such devotee attains supreme joy and experiences limitless bliss in the heart. To understand and confirm this principle curious devotees should read again and again Vachnamritam Gadhada Madhya Chapter – 8 which will open so many spiritual looks and the path of contemplation and meditation will become simple. In this Vachanamritam, Shriji Maharaj says, “There are ten senses and the mind is the eleventh – all should be drawn from the subjects in which they 23 24 Charnarvind Dhyan The contemplation of the anlius (Ankush i.e. goad) mark on the foot-soles of Shri Hari inspires us to keep our mind under control. Though the Ankush is small it can control a huge elephant. If we hold Shri Hari's words in our heart the movements of mind are stabilized in the feet of Shri Hari and the mind comes under control. In Holy Fellowship many devotees had made oblation of their senses and mental modifications in the sacrifice of Yoga-Yajna and had got the realization 5 of the form of Lord Swaminarayan; and these incidents have been recorded in the history of our Holy Fellowship. There is a village called Chhapri in Saurashtra and in this village there lived Janbai - a devout, firm lady devotee of Shriji Maharaj. As she was Yogabhrashta (who had left yoga-practice half way in previous birth) soul her mind could not be united with any worldly matter. ANKUSH Once Janbai along with her mother Kamalbai went to Gadhada and there she had the darshan of Shriji Maharaj under a Neem tree and there she had a As anlius controls a reckless and errand elephant, miraculous experience i.e. peace spread in her mind the anlius-mark on Shri Hari's foot; and soul. As Janbai went home she took a firm controls and directs the devotee's mind, decision that she would not prefer to marry. She to the shelter of the Master. made up her mind that she wanted to follow Sankhya 25 26 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan discipline and for her entire life she will remain in The next day he told the Kathi, “You stay here till devotion of Shriji Maharaj. She started to live in a midnight and keep a watch on the unknown strange separate room and started to do Bhajan following old woman entering Janbai's room at midnight.” The strict Sankhya disciplines . next day the brother of Janbai sat to keep a watch and Janbai kept on uniting her senses and the force the old woman came and entered Janbai's room, her of mind with Shriji Maharaj. Her devotion became so brother brought a lantern and knocked the door and strong that using a string she tied her hair to a plank in Janbai opened the door. Her brother asked, “Did the roof of her room, squatted on floor and put a pair anyone come here?” Janbai said, “No one is here, you of grinding stones in her lap, then began the can search the room.” The brother could find no one meditation of Shriji Maharaj! Gradually, the form of so he said, “O sister! tell me the truth, otherwise I will Shriji Maharaj began to settle in the soul of Janbai. end my life with this dagger!” After some days as her mother asked, “Will you At last Janbai said, “The wife of the baniya come for Darshan in Samaiya?” Janbai replied, “You Laxmichand in this village has become chudel may go I don't want to come. If Shriji Maharaj wants to (horrible female ghost) after her death. She comes to offer Darshan, he will give it to me right here.” In this me to listen to religious matters.” Her brother said, way her devotion became mature. After some days “How can I believe it?” So the chudel in her original her mother Kamalbai returned from the Samaiya. form manifested and said, “I did not follow rajaswala During this period saints came to Chhapri (menses period) discipline and I had fallen in bad village and Kathi Ravat gave them accommodation. company; so I have got the body of a ghost but now I Katha-varta preaching continued till late night, then have come in contact with Janbai and understood the father and son went to bed. A swami was chanting ways of Satsang. So she will take me to the abode.” – Mantra on rosary in the verandah who saw an old All who were listening were overwhelmed to hear woman entering Janbai's room. He thought if a male this! has entered the room in the guise of a woman it Then the group of saints came to Gadhada and would be shameful because Janbai was a the Swami narrated entire incident to Shriji Maharaj. Sankhyayogini. Shriji Maharaj had visited Chhapri village in divine 27 28 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan form. He had gone to Bhatavdar to get Dada Khachar In this way the mark of Ankush in the foot of married and had visited in Chhapri village. He was Shri Hari inspires us to control mind and senses and accompanied by Parshada – Kamalbai arranged for a get from there the Darshan of Lord Swaminarayan. fire to warm Himself. Shriji Maharaj asked Kamalbai, Mohan Chhel has enchanted me into love. “Will Janbai come here or shall I go to her room?” So Has stolen my mind by the force of love, Janbai's mother Kamalabai informed Janbai that Shriji I have forgotten my body. 1 Maharaj had come. Full of enthusiasm Janbai came running and putting her head before the feet of Shri Garments like Jama Jarida, Hari and with tears of joy she began to pray, “O precious pearls studded laces. 2 Maharaj! now call me to your abode and bless me Interesting face, alluring eyes, with the bliss of your form.” Shriji Maharaj said, “I will showering the rain of love. 3 call you after one month.” Then Janbai said, “I am not Says Premanand I will keep reserved, alone but we are three.” Maharaj asked, “Who are the my heart for beloved Ghanshyam. 4 other two?” The reply came, “The daughter of my In this world real essence lies only in the Form of mother's sister and the wife of the Baniya called Lord Swaminarayan – when this truth is realized the Laxmichand. There is an agreement among us that devotee gets connected with love to the real form of three of us will go to Akshardham together. So along God. In the naughty devotional love the ego of the with me they should also get welfare (salvation).” devotee is dropped off and the feeling of oneness Shriji Maharaj said, “Do you keep this group of with God emerges. In the climax of devotion the sense ghosts with you?” Janbai said, “Yes, Maharaj.” “Ok I of doing is uprooted and feeling comes that God has will do the welfare of all the three!” Saying so He caught me in love – this is the climax of devotional disappeared and after one month all the three were love. taken to imperishable abode by Shriji Maharaj. At the When our mind, senses and heart gets intensely center of this incident there is the yoga-yajna of attached in the Form of Lord Swaminarayan our Janbai. She controlled her mind and senses and got existence gets steadfast in the form of Lord united with Shriji Maharaj and she had the realization Swaminarayan, desire goes away from body then the of Shriji Maharaj : relative of body has no place! 29 30 Charnarvind Dhyan My mind has been stolen and I have forgotten the body. My Lord is the essence of all essence. His eyes are full of love and affection and they shower only love. If you go to a diamond-shop and ask for a hardware material like nail you will not get it there. In the same way only love, compassion and grace always flow from His eyes. The happiness of the idol of God is never destroyed because it is faultless happiness. For this reason we should have some 6 reservation in our body senses and heart for Lord Swaminarayan. Now explaining the importance of Jamun fruit mark in contemplation of lotus feet of Lord Swaminarayan, Nishkulanand Swami says .....

JAMBU

If you have once tasted the Jamun fruit, it contains the essence of all the tastes. So great that it destroys the desire for all other tastes; and ultimately the world seems quite tasteless.

31 32 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan The contemplation of Jamun mark on Shri Hari's his mind on this form, then desires for happiness will foot inspires us to find all the tastes in the idol of Shri retire. Hari. As the taste of Jamun is sweet and superior to all Bhagwan Swaminarayan is the source of divine other tastes – if one can have such realization through bliss so when our mind and heart intensely dragged experience his desire for all other worldly tastes will towards Him, the mind will retire from objects of be diminished. If one can get confirmed worldly pleasure. Therefore, it is necessary to be understanding of the fact that total and ultimate associated with the form of God. When desire happiness lies in devotional contemplation of the idol wanders among worldly objects add some knowledge of Lord Swaminarayan, the world becomes to your reasoning telling that this soul has traveled uninteresting to him. through 84 lakh species (births) and yet does not feel Brahmanand Swami had experienced all the satisfied even after enjoying worldly object's pleasures of the world very closely. He had received therefore such type of pleasure is imperfect and name, fame, honour, royal patronage and yet he felt a perishable. But the bliss derived from the Moorti of vacuum within himself, which could be filled only Lord Swaminarayan is perfect and eternal. So the after he established communion with the form of contemplation of Jamun fruit teaches us that rapture Shriji Maharaj. After the Darshan, memory, and lies only in the form of God, therefore one should not experience he sang :- try to find pleasure from worldly objects. Now Swami tries to explain the details about the mark of Vajra Like illusory desert water, (weapon). pleasures of the world. Counting them all as false, I have forshaken all desires. I have chosen my Lord, at the cost of my head. The world looks insipid when profound love rises in the form of God. The Form of God is in the place of Jamun fruit and when one can concentrate 33 34 Charnarvind Dhyan Darshan, contemplation of Vajra-mark. Vajra is a steel-weapon which protects the warrior from the attack of the enemy. In the same way by the contemplation of Vajra-mark on the foot of Shri Hari makes us free from the bondage of death (Kaal) and actions. By taking shelter in the holy feet of Lord Swaminarayan many souls have attained fearlessness. The mark of Vajra in the foot of Lord Swaminarayan can let down the force of Kaal (death) 7 and action (Karma). Anyone who keeps connection with this mark will become fearless in all respects. Brahmanand Swami was building temple there in that city, and they ran a lime-chimney-furnace as lime was required in construction work. There was a jealous Sadhu in that city who practiced black magic and did not allow furnace-fire to be on. Gopalanand Swami asked Brahmanand Swami “Where is the furnace?” They went there in a small cart. VAJRA Gopalanand Swami was there, he asked for some milk and then made three circles of milk-stream around Those who watch Vajra-mark become fearless, the furnace uttering “light, light, light”. As he uttered three times the fire was lit and flames began to come The fear of Kaal (death) and Karma, up as if ghee was offered in the sacrificial fire! Flames removed from the heart. leaped up on all four sides. As the fire was blazing the The soul becomes fearless after getting disciples of the Sadhu who noticed the scene took to 35 36 Charnarvind Dhyan their heels and told their guru, “O Guru the furnace is burning bright.” Guru asked who lit the fire? “They replied,” A Sadhu called Gopalanand has come and he has lighted it.” The Sadhu said, “Now we cannot do anything.” Any expert in Mantra-Tantra could not compete Gopalanand Swami because he always remained connected with the element of Vajra mark in the lotus foot of Lord Swaminarayan. So when at any point in the life one faces the fear of Kaal (death) and Karma (action) one should remember the Vajra mark and 8 contemplate on the idol of Lord Swaminarayan and that will protect us. Now Swami explains the eighth mark of (Padma) Lotus .....

PADMA

As water cannot stick to lotus, a saint can never be polluted in this world. Due to the power of contemplation on the lotus, evil effects of worldly matters cannot pervade him.

37 38 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan Lotus stays in water but water cannot wet if so it grain, loaves and cooked food. The saints put inspires us to live detached life and engage ourselves everything together and made balls from that in the devotion of Lord Swaminarayan. The saints of material and distributed those balls among them. Shri Hari who remained connected with the lotus Sometimes they got only a little to eat; but they mark in the foot of Shri Hari did a lot of activities continued the Kirtan and religious discussions. Once under the instruction of Shri Hari and by moving in as their religious discussions were in progress Jam society they inspired many souls to seek shelter at Saheb - the king, happened to pass from there riding a theholy feet of Lord Swaminarayan but they did not horse carriage with a purpose to go for Darshan at create any worldly bondage therefore Muktanand Hanumanji temple. Swami has sung : When he saw such radiant Sadhus he asked his The manifested Sahajanand, secretary, “Whose Sadhus are these?” The secretary through His magic has stolen my mind, replied, “These are the saints of Swaminarayan.” Jam and dropped the loop of Brahmanhood in my neck. Saheb asked, “Where do these many saints get their Shriji Maharaj had dropped the noose of meals from?” The secretary said, “They beg in the Brahman element in the neck of the saints therefore town and eat their meals.” The king said, “How would the pleasant five objects of the world could not allure begging suffice for these many saints, tell them to them. The saints had shown extreme love for the idol come and eat at the place where we have arranged.” of Shri Hari. It is not possible that the mind will not be The secretary told the same to Swamis, to which carried away by worldly objects. But the saints had so Swarupanand Swami replied, “We do not have our strong attraction in the idol of Lord Swaminarayan Guru's permission for that.” The secretary said, and there was such magic in His speech that the mind “Maharaja Saheb wants it so you have to eat the of His seekers will not wander any where. meal.” Swarupanand Swami said, “Hell with your town we will go to other place.” Once about 250 saints after a short tour, as per the instructions of Shri Hari, reached Jamnagar and The secretary reported this to the King. The King halted at Lakhota tank in the North of the town. As replied, “We do not want to displease the saints. Go saints took a begging round people gave them flour, and tell them that we do not know your ways of 39 40 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan discipline but we request you to show us such the attraction of worldly pleasures and lotus means solution that our food can go into the sacred mouth of the absolute saints, devotees of Lord Swaminarayan. saints like you.” Listening to such humble words of the There were a number of household Satsangis. They Maharaja the Swami said, “When our Sadhus take a possessed royal property, land, and estate but they begging round in the town you may put your food in were not trapped by worldly matters. Though they the bag, the saints will eat the same.” lived luxurious household life they showed extreme devotion for Lord Swaminarayan. The next day when saints went round the town he put flour, gur, ghee etc. in their bag and the saints Such immutable devotee was Shivlalbhai from brought the same to their halt-place. Swami said, “O Botad, the son of Bhaga Doshi, born with golden Saints make Kuler (sweet powder) and offer it to the spoon in his mouth. But by coming in contact with God.” The King arranged for their meals for six days great Saints like Gopalanand Swami and and the saints also blessed the King wishing his Gunatitanand Swami his being was ascent towards welfare. But senior Swarupanand Swami told, “O Lord Supreme. Saints, now the town is alert, get up from here. We Though a millionaire he was not wealth-oriented, should not stay at the place where we get much His body was worldly, but mind was ascetic; respect.” All the saints set out from there. As they Believe him as Janak Videhi, could get nothing to eat on their way they had to eat living like lotus in water. vetch (guvar) leaves to satisfy their hunger. Shivlalbhai's body was worldly but his mind was like that of ascetic. Though he was a millionaire he Water cannot stain the lotus, was never attached to wealth and money. Once the saints live such life in this world; Swami asked him, “Shivlal where had you gone?” no evil effect can enter due to, the power of the foot-mark of the God. Shivlalbhai said, “I had gone to the market and I have bought one grand meal from there.” Swami asked, The King had made the offer from his side, “What meal?” Shivlalbhai said, “I purchased gold though the attraction could not work on the saints from one market, sold it in another market and because Brahman element and the words of Shriji earned rupees hundred and fifty as profit, I want to Maharaj were confirmed in their hearts. Water means offer a grand meal to saints from that amount.” 41 42 Charnarvind Dhyan To this the Swami said, “That is alright. But do you ever think to purchase crores tones of ashes?” Shivlalbhai said, “No Swami.” Then the Swami explained that leaving the Moorti of Shriji Maharaj everything else is as useless as ashes. What did you earn by leaving Satsang for doing business in the market? By listening to such talks full of wisdom Shivlalbhai could remain unattached to wealth, money and luxury. In this way the mark of lotus in the foot of Shri Hari suggests to remain steadfast in devotion while remaining unattached in this world. 9 Now Swami explains triangle as the ninth mark .....

TRIKON

The mark of triangle adores the left foot, contemplating on it three kinds of miseries; born out of Sattva, Rajas, Tamas , can be destroyed, which can benefit the seeker. 43 44 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan There is a triangle-mark on the left foot of Shri Some pains come due to bad luck and Shriji Hari. Its three angles suggest three types of troubles Maharaj protects us from them. Previously Shriji in the world. The contemplation of this mark can Maharaj has protected his devotees from such type of pacify Adhibhut (worldly troubles), Adhidaiva pains which have been documented by Nishkulanand (troubles from deities-stars) and Adhyatmik (pains of Swami. In Bhaktachintamani Chapter – 137 he writes the body) - these three types of troubles. The devotee the story of Pranvallabh. who takes shelter in the feet of Lord Swaminarayan is always protected by him. The devotee who has full In Amdavad there lived a Brahmin Satsangi affection for Shri Hari always obeys His commands called Pranvallabh. He always worshipped Lord which detains and destroys all on-coming pains of the Swaminarayan with firm determination that this (material) body; and along with these panchbhautik world is temporary and perishable. (five types of material) pains are also prevented. The Once Pranvallabh went to take bath in Godavari commands of Shriji Maharaj are so subtle and Tirth along with his relatives. But unfortunately the comprehensive that by obeying them all these pains epidemic of plague had spread there. It was a deadly and troubles are destroyed e.g. It has been ordered disease and had come as natural calamity. The that on the occasion of Solar or Lunar eclipse one disease caught Pranvallabh and his body was nearing should chant Swaminarayan Mahamantra Dhoon and his death. Pranvallabh remembered Shriji Maharaj, then after take bath. The atmosphere gets negative So Shriji Maharaj manifested Himself and appeared to effect of the creation of five fundamental elements offer Darshan and said, “O Pranvallabh! I am here to and pains caused by it to the mind and body of human take you away to My imperishable abode, if you have beings. If you closely study the effect of eclipse during any last wish just tell Me.” that period you feel somewhat discomfortable. The activity of Mantrajaap spreads spiritual vibrations in To this Pranvallabh replied, “O Maharaj! I did the atmosphere and saves us from negative effects of not have the scope to tell my people that I am to leave the eclipse. By taking the bath finally the mind and the for Your abode. People will believe and say that body become cool and quiet. In this way Shriji Pranvallabh died from plague as others have died.” So Maharaj saves us from all physical and material Shriji Maharaj said, “Now, go back to your body and worldly troubles and pains. come to Me after proper clarification.” 45 46 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan All the relatives and companions carried the Pranvallabh said, “At present there is a natural body of Pranvallabh to cremation ground and when it calamity, the force of Kaal in the form of the epidemic was placed on pyre his body began to move; the is very heavy, and many men and women are likely to people standing around said, “Pranvallabh is dead, die in it. There is only one remedy to save oneself just how can he come back into his body?” Suddenly chant “Swaminarayan Swaminarayan”. If you believe Pranvallabh got up and on being asked he explained me start chanting the Dhoon “Swaminarayan, how he was given the chance to come back. Swaminarayan” clapping your hands. He showed the Pranvallabh said, “Brothers! I was in the abode with method of Dhoon and clapped too, with others. And Shriji Maharaj, but I have come here to tell you while sitting on the pyre he demonstrated something. The reference to the words of Pranvallabh Swaminarayan Dhoon and the sound of Dhoon has been made by Nishkulanand Swami in his started spreading in the crematorium! Bhaktachintamani like this ..... After sometime he asked to stop Dhoon and The force of Kaal (death) is very heavy, told everyone that now he was leaving for the abode. it will kill all men and women; He squatted legs in Padmasan, made his mind stable so chant the name Swaminarayan, in the idol of Shriji Maharaj and before the eyes of all if you want to survive. he proceeded to the imperishable abode of Lord Believe my words and, Swaminarayan! The people around were filled with continue kirtan by clapping your hands; surprise and pleasure to witness this miracle! In Holy Then he demonstrated Dhoon, Fellowship a Satsangi has not to experience and himself also joined in clapping. everlasting pain or pleasure. If pain comes Lord After some preaching he left his body, Swaminarayan is always there to help and support leaving everyone in great surprise; and for this reason the followers always feel happy. It brings pleasure when one knows about, the popularity of the story of this miracle. The strength and power in the lotus feet of Lord Take it for granted that there is nothing, Swaminarayan can be understood when one studies like permanent pain or pleasure in Satsang; and understands the deep meaning of every mark and The entire group shares pleasant mood, day by day contemplate on it, only contemplation can as Lord Sahajanand always extends His support. give us auspicious inspiration. That will lead us to the 47 48 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan firmness in the Form of God. If one get this much by Now fourteen Worlds look like a straw, contemplation on lotus feet, think of the gain if you Brahmanand praises such loving seekers, contemplate on the Moorti. who deserve the Supreme abode. In this present atmosphere of stress and strain God Himself has created this world, and has man is confused in the chain of action and reaction in spread Himself in every body, so attraction to such thing is very natural, but the world is the effect and his mind, sometimes he thinks of on-coming future God is the cause. During our travel from self to troubles and becomes the victim of blood-pressure, universe the souls come across many other souls, diabetes, sleeplessness etc.. shapes and forms and sensuous objects. If the soul But who remains in touch with the lotus-feet of has not got a touch of real knowledge it is carried Lord Swaminarayan and understands the importance away by such worldly objects. Brahmanand Swami of the divine marks gets free from such troubles. The here says, blessed are the devotees who have been triangle mark on the left foot of Shri Hari is the pacifier enamoured in the charming form of Shyam Sundar of psycho, physical and natural troubles. Devotional alias Lord Swaminarayan. They are freed from all practice should be done with firm belief that I will get worldly pains and troubles who have confirmed their protection from all these pains and troubles. faith in the manifested Lord Swaminarayan. All troubles are gone, Blessed are those who are drenched, when firm devotion is accepted. in the devotion of Shyam Sundar. As I adore Shyam's feet day and night, Kirtan runs from breath to breath, I enter into spontenious Samadhi. don't let the thread to break; When there starts genuine adoration for the As bird Chakora to the moon, he keeps the image of the master in the eyes. lotus-feet, meditation becomes effortless. This is the influence of the lotus feet of Lord Swaminarayan. Firm devotion is accepted, all troubles are gone; Now let us turn to the mark of Meen (Fish) on Adoring all day the feet of Shyam, the foot sole of Lord Swaminarayan and try to achieved spontaneous Samadhi . understand its meaning. 49 50 Charnarvind Dhyan The mark of fish in the foot of Lord Swaminarayan gives the strength and inspiration to remain detached in the world. As a fish keeps on moving and fluttering in water, and does not live at a fixed place, in the same way the absolute devotees of God do not limit themselves to space or time. They are not bound by worldly matters. Devotees should live such detached life and practise devotion to Shriji Maharaj. In this analogy fish means our soul and water 10 means worldly matters. Here the fish is given two adjectives : active and clever. The devotee does not get bounded ane where and skillfully remains detached. We should remain alert at the gate of awareness(our consciousness) – such are the words of Shriji Maharaj. We should remain conscious and alert in the matter of the world and in the path of God. Consciousness brings discrimination which generates cleverness. So clever means the one in whom wisdom has been confirmed. Cleverness and wisdom give the power of judgement. The clever devotee has the MEEN power to analyze all the circumstances in his daily life either it may be pain, joy, temptation or any other The absolutely conscious saints, worldly affairs. He is not bound by any of them. When remain detached from all worldly matters; he fully understands that the entire universe is the like a fish that lives a wandering life, creation and possession of Lord Swaminarayan, he fluttering in water. gets freed from the sense of possessiveness. 51 52 Charnarvind Dhyan The fish keeps on fluttering, moving and gliding in water but does not possess any part in water. The seekers should follow this example in their spiritual life. The devotee who adores the feet of Lord Swaminarayan and believes that entire earth belongs to the All Mighty. He considers the pleasures of 14 worlds like a straw of grass and therefore they become worthy of the imperishable abode which is above the 14 worlds. We should understand that we all individuals are the fishes in the water of the ocean-like super 11 soul, omnipresent Lord Swaminarayan. Omnipresent means within and without, internal and external, in consciousness or dream, in speech and listening; where we wander we wander in His creation only! You become detached when you move from the effect to cause. If you have affection for a saintly person it is not binding but affection for common person can be binding because saintly person is having communion with God and the other one is dealing with the world. In this way if we link up our actions and everything with Lord Swaminarayan and ARDHA CHANDRA keep ourselves detached we shall be able to live like the fish. Moon makes things cool, So the analogy of fish teaches us to live a being its basic quality, detached life like the fish in water. Now let us turn to Does not cause burning, the eleventh mark of Half-moon. in the heart that remembers it. 53 54 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan There is a half-moon mark in the foot of Lord contemplates on Lord Swaminarayan it becomes Swaminarayan. When the moon rises coolness begins abode-like because Lord Swaminarayan dwells in that to spread in all directions. When a devotee begins to soul. That soul becomes enlightened and the contemplate on the moon in the foot of Lord darkness of Maya is removed from it, and there Swaminarayan, quietness and coolness spread in the spreads peace, coolness and quietness in that soul. mind and his soul and heart become stable. This pleasure is divine pleasure which can match The heart of man is usually covered by nectar in heaven, so Nishkulanand Swami sings : disturbances, confusions and peace-breaking The brave Swaminarayan dwells in my heart, thoughts. One who has to do with worldly affairs has all doubts and grief are pacified, to face troublesome, painful and disturbing and the mind has become stable and quiet. situations. Believing money as means of happiness Nishkulanand says that after reaching the blissful state, the heart has no regrets now. today’s man runs after it but if the money earned by him is not fair, it becomes a cause of many troubles in In this way by holding the Form of Lord life. Only Lord Swaminarayan can uproot all these Swaminarayan the heart becomes free from all because He Himself has offered the definition of the doubts and regrets; the conscious gets stabilized and abode in which he lives. becomes free from the shadows of doubts and agonies. So the contemplation of half Moon brings My abode you know, coolness and quietness in the heart. Now we turn to is called imperishable and nectar-like. the twelfth mark called Gopada. It is cool and quiet, radiant beyond comparison. I live there forever, two-armed is My divine form. Lord Swaminarayan's imperishable abode is divine, eternal and radiant and it has been compared with nectar. Though it is radiant it is cool and quiet. These two are its basic qualities. If any soul 55 56 Charnarvind Dhyan As per the Hindu traditional and cultural concept the foot of a cow suggests upward movement towards heaven. The devotee who contemplates on Gopada gets the strength and power to cross this painful worldly ocean and reach to the proximity of God. So Nishkulanand Swami says : O Dullard! be alert, grasp the opportunity, Start the worship of the feet of indestructible Shri Hari; in order to destroy the dual of pain and misery, and end the cycle of 84 lac births. 12 When the life comes to end and when it is time to go to the Lord's abode after crossing the worldly ocean, one needs a boat in the form of the worship of Lord Swaminarayan's idol. Only that person who takes shelter in the feet of Lord Swaminarayan, getting free from Maya killing the pains of many births – attains the abode of Shri Hari. By remembering the Gopada mark in the foot of Shri Hari one's thinking is confirmed that he has not to GOPADA be gripped by Maya but his ultimate goal is the Lord's abode. So teach your soul, “Be aware, be alert, don't be caught in the worldly mattes. People who have left People contemplate on Gopada because, have gained nothing from the material world. So there are such qualities in it; make sure that your goal is to reach the imperishable which can give the scope to cross immediately, abode of Lord Swaminarayan and remain in this boundless ocean of worldly life. connection with the divine feet of Shri Hari. This type 57 58 Charnarvind Dhyan of instructional dialogue with subconscious mind keeps one aware of one’s ultimate goal. In this way Gopada is the mark which inspires us to leave this perishable world and ascend to imperishable Akshardham of Lord Swaminarayan. Now Swami talks about thirteenth mark Bow (Dhanushya).

DHANUSH

Shri Hari gets pleased on him, who contemplate on the bow-mark; as it destroys the polluting effect of, lust, anger, ego and greed. 59 60 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan As the bow destroys the enemy. The bow and Considering to the zeal of such devotee Shri arrow in the form of the Lord's worship and devotion Hari runs to help him. The clouds of lustful desires destroys the internal enemies like desire, anger, ego anger and greed disperse from his heart and the mind and greed and by destroying them the devotee can becomes calm and quiet and in that quiet heart he get bliss from the God. The Lord showers His grace on gets the Darshan of Lord Swaminarayan in His the soul who fights against senses, mind and intellect blissful form. and minimizing their force strengthens devotion. So If we turn to mythology we will find that God Nishkulanand Swami says : had assumed the form of Nrusinha(half lion and half With a courageous heart man) to kill Hiranax and save Bhakta Prahalad. Then without being lazy; Prahaladji earnestly prayed to Shri Hari, “O Lord! You keep-on fighting and never step back, have protected my body but I do not consider it as till your death. 1 protection. I will consider it as total protection when I Considering the unshaken am protected from internal enemies like desire, night and day internal fight; anger, greed and ego. Such protection will purify my Shri Hari comes to help mind and heart and make me able to get connected such brave devotee. 2 with Your form divine. When I get such state of A bow is the symbol of bravery and challenge consciousness, I will consider it as real protection. and the Gandiv(bow)-master Arjuna is its ideal. Arjun symbolizes devotion and bow is the mark of the It is very needful for all keep in mind the earnest symbolic fight with internal enemies . So the devotee prayer of Prahaladji. We should try to detect the fights courageously against the force of five material defects which become obstacles in the path of God's subjects and never steps back till the end of his life. He devotion and should release arrows of Kirtan, Smaran defeats all the enemies which become obstacles in (chanting Mantra within), Manasi Puja (mental the path of meditation. He perfects his ideals of worship) to minimize their force and remember Lord meditation with the help of fighting weapons like Swaminarayan. Then He will definately shower His Kirtan, holy association, and Katha-varta (listening to grace upon us. holy sermons). In this way the mark of bow on the foot of Lord 61 62 Charnarvind Dhyan Swaminarayan inspires the seeker to fight against internal enemies and to strengthen the power of Kirtan, Katha-varta and devotion. Now Nishkulanand Swami tells us about the fourteenth mark – Vyoma.

VYOMA

Devotees who watch the mark of Vyoma, are not detained in their path; because limitlessness is, the attribute of the space (Akash). 63 64 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan That devotees who again and again recollect and reported the same to Swami. the mark of Vyoma in the foot of Lord Swaminarayan So Swami asked, “To whom was the Brahmin do not experience any hindrance in their devotion. deeply attached in Holy Fellowship?” The Swami Vyoma possesses the quality of being cover less and replied, “He was much attached to Amoghanand immutability. Swami.” So Swami asked, “And what was the subject The sky is the support for earth, water, air, and of his study?” All said, “He was studying Ramakatha”. light and it spread itself everywhere, and it is never Then the Swami asked the son to go into Samadhi and disturbed by any cover. The mark of Vyom in the foot reach Vaikunth. As he entered Vaikunth he saw Lord of Shri Hari strongly inspires the devotee to get close Shri Ramachandraji sitting on His Simhasan and to the form of Lord Swaminarayan by crossing all Amoghanand Swami was reading Ramakatha there! worldly barriers. The father of the boy sitting nearby. The boy asked his The Nand Saints of Shriji Maharaj were as father to show where the document was, because the untouched and immutable as the sky. Once owner was demanding it from him. The father said, Gopalanand Swami adorned Umreth. There a “There is a wooden beam in the house and in it I have Brahmin had taken a house on mortgage and then he made a nitch which is sealed. You will get the died. After sometime the owner of the house document when you open the seal. approached the dead Brahmin's son and said, “Here is The son reported this to the audience after your money, give me back the mortgage-deed.” The awaking from Samadhi. He went home, called a son searched in the house but could not trace the carpenter, opened the seal in the beam and handed document. So he went to Gopalanand Swami and over the document to the owner. said, “O Swami! The owner of the mortgaged house is Thus Gopalanand Swami felt no hindrance or demanding the document but I can't get it anywhere. cover! Even on his word persons could go to other My father must have placed it some where but now Loka (world) and get the experience. At the root of he is dead. What to do?” such achievement there is the power of the shelter of Then Swami asked a saint to enter Samadhi to Shri Hari's Lotus feet which have the limitlessness and go and inquire in Akshardham, but the saint did not purity of the sky. Now Swami tells us about the see the Brahmin there. He returned from Samadhi fifteenth mark – Kalash. 65 66 Charnarvind Dhyan Kalash is the highest article of supreme embellishment in the classical structure of Hindu temple. It is the symbol of perfect beauty and fulfillment. If the devotee practices worship with perfect fulfillment his devotion also shines out like Kalash and nothing remains to be done by him. So Kalash symbolizes the principle of fulfillment and gratitude. Though we practice devotion we feel a void within our self and therefore fulfillment is lacking. But 15 when you realize the real glory of Lord Swaminarayan and when you are filled and overwhelmed by the proud sense of belonging to his Purushottamness and Godhood then you feel very much fulfilled and sated. Explaining this point Nishkulanand Swami says : Crores of welfare have come, my luck laughs today; Achieving god direct and now, all my dues are paid. 1 There is no loss as I get, KALASH sweeping showers of nectar; Why do I count one welfare? How can I describe Kalash ? Crores of them have spread. 2 It always stays on top; Hunger, thirst and poverty are gone, If you hold it in heart, don't call us poor now; We are no longer moneyless, nothing remains to be done ! profuse wealth has come. 3 67 68 Charnarvind Dhyan Blessed is this eventful day, chanced to meet Maharaj; Says Nishkulanand drums of victory, are sounding sweet aloud. 4 Lord Swaminarayan manifested on this earth and those who adored his idol with chastity have become blessed. Showering of divine Nectar happened! Means the devotees experience pleasure in the Moorti, in the Mantra, in the scriptures and in the company of the saints-devotees of Lord Swaminarayan. All these things take the soul towards 16 immortality and blissful state of consciuosness. Therefore welfare is not single or one-way but it is all round many folded and many sided. Wealth has come to us in the form of contemplation and enlightenment of Lord Swaminarayan, so do not call us poor. Today we find world wide acclaim for the knowledge and the way of life prescribed by Lord Swaminarayan, it is like beating drums of victory. We have achieved Lord Swaminarayan and got attached to his idol, nothing is wanting or lacking in life now. We URDHVA REKHA feel obliged, fulfilled and proud. So the mark of Kalash in the foot of Shri Hari symbolizes the climax of As I watch both feet, devotion. Now Swami tells about the sixteenth mark – I'm filled with pleasure, Urdhva Rekha (Rising Line). Nishkulanand covets, the two rising lines. 69 70 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan The mark of rising lines on both the feet soles of That Son of Dharma is dearer than soul, Shri Hari is the symbol of upward journey and He is yoga, yajna, all sacred means. progressin spiritual path. It suggests that when the Premanand says that in idol of Ghanshyam, soul is freed from Maya and all bondages of worldly Lies supreme principle of ours. matters it gets upward progress culminating into a Premanand Swami says that the life of our life is flight to the imperishable abode Akshardham - the one and only one dear son of Dharmadev i.e. Lord source of eternal bliss. Swaminarayan. As in Ramayan Hanumanji bares his Urdhava Moolam Adhah Shakha. Here Urdhva chest and offers Darshan of Rama-Sita. The Nand means upward, Moolam means root, adhah means saints had absolute relation with the idol of Lord downwards and Shakha means branch. In the cosmos Swaminarayan in respect of senses, mind, intellect, tree the root is upward and the branches are self-consciousness and vital force. In Holy Fellowship downward. It means God is the root of the tree the force supporting their physical and spiritual (universe). In this universe we enjoy the pleasures of existence is Shriji Maharaj; and the Holy Fellowship is five objects which is the creation of God. But the radiant due to Him only. Lord Swaminarayan had creator is God. When the energy of the body rising raised a group of saints and devotees who lived a from Muladhar chakra going upward across Ajna faultless and spotless life. Chakra, and reach towards Brahma-Randhra, the soul You may practice yogic exercises, Yajna or other gets genuine spiritual pleasure - the ever lasting bliss. means and actions to get fame-everything is included When the vision of devotee makes upward in the idol of Lord Swaminarayan. All the mysteries of progress he gets detached from worldly material Vedanta ends before the idol of Lord Swaminarayan. pleasures and his mind becomes steady in the form of Premanand Swami says that we have only one Lord Swaminarayan. The condition of such devotee is principle that is the idol of Lord Swaminarayan. described by Premanand Swami : All the principles of vedic classical theories are To us life means Dharma's son, realized as soon as you start to contemplate and get in Who is Life and soul of all devotees; communion with the idol of Lord Swaminarayan. The light for Holy Fellowship. When you get this type of highest understanding, 71 72 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan your journey starts towards Divine Consciousness. So summary of the marks. the rising line in the feet of Shri Hari inspires to make The details are arranged as per the order in progress from worldly elements to spiritual element. Chestapada. It inspires for the progress from Jagat (world) to Jagadishwar (Shri Hari). 1. Ashtakon (Octagon) - This world is covered with the influence of Kaal (death). I bow to Shriji We have tried to understand the meaning and Maharaj who saves me from the clutches of significance of the marks on the feet of Shriji Maharaj. Kaal. In this booklet we get detailed information about how 2. Urdhvarekha (Rising Line) - Think that “Let my to contemplate on the marks, but only mark cannot soul be released from the world and be steady do anything. Many people draw triangles in the study in the form of Lord Swaminarayan. Let such of Geometry and many people study about fish. power of thoughts develop in the heart.” But having connection with the fact how 3. Swastik (Sacred Cross) - Hold in mind that the particular mark is related with Lord Swaminarayan idol of Lord Swaminarayan can bring all and if with this sense the lyric is being recited then auspicious things in life. real purpose will be served. When you speak 'triangle' you should cultivate the sense that “ I bow to Shriji 4. Jambu (Black berry) - I don't want to attach my Maharaj - the destroyer three-fold troubles.” You mind anywhere else because all pleasant have to hear in heart how particular quality of the essences are contained in the idol of Lord mark is associated with Lord Swaminarayan and then Swaminarayan. recite the lyric; such a prayer can bring force in your 5. Java (Barley Grain) - Confirm the idea that, as devotion. Java is used as offering sacrificial material in In this way after comprehending the mark its Yajna, I will channalized my senses and mind in details should be grasped in two lines and should be Lord Swaminarayan after purifying them. remembered while practicing contemplation of 6. Vajra (Steel Weapon) - Firm shelter of the idol lotus-feet(Charanarvind), only then your contemp- of Shri Hari should be taken believing that Lord lation will become fruitful. Let us have a brief Swaminarayan will protect me from the force of 73 74 Charnarvind Dhyan Charnarvind Dhyan Kaal and Karma. to me. 7. Ankush (Goad) - I will follow God's Vratmaan 14. Meen (Fish) - Fish is fluttering at many places in and thereby I will make the inclinations of the water and lives skilful life. I will also live mind steady in the feet of Lord Swaminarayan. boundless life and remain skillful as not to be 8. Ketu (Holy Flag) - I will spend my life span by bound by worldly matters. following the commands of Lord Shri 15. Ardha Chandra (Half-Moon) - The moon Swaminarayan. spreads coolness and nourishes the vegetable 9. Padma (Lotus) - Though lotus stands in water it world. In the same way I will get peace and is never affected by it. In the same way worldly coolness by holding the idol of Lord pleasures will not be able to fade out me if I hold Swaminarayan in my heart, and the qualities of the idol of Lord Swaminarayan in my heart. religion, devotion, knowledge and asceticism 10. Trikon (Triangle) - Three types of pains will be will be nourished. destroyed by the power of the idol of Lord 16. Vyoma (Sky) - Lord Swaminarayan is unaffected Swaminarayan. like the sky and by his power there will be no 11. Kalash (Pitcher) - Kalash remains on the top of hindrance in my devotion. atemple building. Like Kalash I feel proud and So as directed before if the lyric is recited by fulfilled for being the devotee of Lord keeping in view the meaning of the marks, our soul Swaminarayan. My devotion will shine out like will be steadied in the lotus-feet of Lord Kalash. Swaminarayan. There is absolute happiness where 12. Gopada (Cow Foot-Print) - The boat in the form there are the lotus-feet of Lord Swaminarayan. So of the idol of Lord Swaminarayan will help me to Premanand Swami sings : cross the ocean of worldly life. I bow to the dust of the feet of Sahajanand, 13. Dhanush (Bow) - Taking a challenge against the the abode of all pilgrim spots; internal enemies, if I continue practising the The same dust which gods like Brahma and sages, devotion, Shriji Maharaj will shower His grace adoringly put on their heads. 75 76 Charnarvind Dhyan The dust of whose feet is adorabely placed on their heads by the gods like Brahma, I bow to the dust of the feet of Bhagwan Shri Sahajanand Swami. All the pilgrim places reside at His feet. Having confirmed this mental mood, if Come closer O dear Shyam - this lyric is sung with emotional integrity, it will not let you go away from the idol of Lord Swaminarayan. I pray that the adoration of the lotus-feet of Lord Swaminarayan in the devotees may increase day by day. I also bow to the lotus-feet of Lord Swaminarayan which have marks with many sacred qualities and is the cause of auspicious welfare of many souls.