Author: BAPS Volunteers
Lyrical Reflections: Daring are the Devout…
Devotion is not for the faint of heart. In his powerful bhajan, Dohyalu Thavu Haridas Re, the revered poet-saint Nishkulanand Swami paints a striking picture of spiritual bravery. Just as a warrior charges into battle with fearless determination, true devotees must confront their inner struggles with unwavering faith. The bhajan begins with a call to become compassionate servants of God, urging seekers to relinquish worldly comforts. This idea may seem daunting, but the poet draws an inspiring parallel—just as a courageous soldier embraces hardships on the battlefield, a sincere devotee must battle against the enemies of the soul: lust, anger, [Read More…]
The Power of Faith and Courage
In the Swaminarayan tradition, the kirtans composed by Brahmanand Swami, such as Harijan Sacha Re, Tekna Mele Re, Jo Hoy Himmat Re, and Pet Katari Re, are powerful hymns that inspire courage and devotion. These kirtans were written during a time when being a Swaminarayan devotee was fraught with challenges. Kings like Vajesinh Darbar of Bhavnagar opposed Bhagwan Swaminarayan, punishing devotees like Rupabhai, who endured immense suffering for their faith. To uplift the morale of these devotees, Bhagwan Swaminarayan instructed Brahmanand Swami to compose these kirtans, which emphasize inner courage and unwavering faith in God. The Essence of Courage The [Read More…]
Purity Through Service: Lessons from the Vachanamrut
“If the senses are engaged in the service of God and His devotee, then the inner self is purified, and the sins that have been attached to the soul since time immemorial are destroyed. Serving others by seeing God in them can be a spiritual cleanse.” – GadhadaSection 1, Number – 8. In a world where stress, negativity, and emotional burdens seem to accumulate endlessly, finding true inner peace can feel like an impossible task. Yet, Bhagwan Swaminarayan offers a profound yet simple solution—purity through service. By engaging the senses in the service of God and His devotees, the inner self undergoes a transformative purification, [Read More…]
A Lesson on Atmabuddhi: A Memorable Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
In the quiet village of Javaraj, Gujarat, in 1975, a tragic accident left several individuals injured. Among them was Mahant Swami Maharaj, a revered spiritual leader known for his profound wisdom and selflessness. Despite enduring immense pain due to a severe jaw injury, he remained composed, radiating an aura of peace and concern—not for himself, but for those around him. Dr. Deepak, the physician who treated him, later recalled the remarkable demeanor of Mahant Swami Maharaj. While others in his condition might have expressed distress or sought immediate relief, Swamiji’s response was entirely different. His first instinct was not to [Read More…]
Lyrical Reflections: They charge their foe, like horses un-reined…
In the poetry of Brahmanand Swami, valor and devotion intertwine seamlessly. The verses describe warriors who march fearlessly towards their foes, unwavering in their resolve. Their courage is likened to untamed horses, charging forward without hesitation. Even amidst the chaos of battle, they find joy in the face of adversity, embodying an unshakable spirit of resilience. True warriors are not merely recognized by their might, but by the admiration of their enemies, who acknowledge their steadfastness. For them, life itself is a secondary concern, while honor and duty take precedence. Their unwavering commitment mirrors the devotion of true seekers of [Read More…]
Mastering the Mind: Lessons from Gunatitanand Swami
“Some are controlled by the mind, while some control the mind.” – Gunatitanand Swami (Swamini Vat 4.119) This powerful statement serves as a daily reminder to introspect: Are we allowing our mind to dictate our actions, or are we guiding it with discipline and wisdom? The mind is a constant force—either a master that leads us astray or a servant that empowers us. When unchecked, it can drag us toward distractions, impulses, and fleeting desires. But when disciplined with wisdom and spiritual insight, it becomes a tool for clarity, purpose, and true inner freedom. Mastery over the mind is not [Read More…]
The Power of Patience and Love: A Memorable Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
On the 23rd of March, 2017, a touching moment unfolded in Nairobi, one that reflects the essence of patience, faith, and the boundless love of a true leader. A young 10-year-old boy named Tilak Dave sat outside Mahant Swami Maharaj’s room, filled with anticipation and hope. Tilak had memorized verses he wanted to present to Swamiji, longing for a chance to share them with him. However, that day was particularly busy for Swamiji. Someone informed Tilak that it would be incredibly difficult for Swamiji to make time, given his packed schedule. Although these words could have easily discouraged him, Tilak’s [Read More…]
Lyrical Reflections: Seeing conviction, the Lord does his part…
In life, courage is not just about physical strength but about unwavering conviction in the face of adversity. The verses by Brahmanand Swami beautifully illustrate this timeless wisdom—true bravery lies in the heart, where faith meets determination. Fear is but an illusion, a mere blade of grass before the mighty will of the resolute. Like a lion that roams the forest alone, undeterred by doubt, one must walk the path of righteousness with fearless resolve. Even the smallest warrior can triumph over great challenges, while even the strongest can falter without courage. Ultimately, Brahmanand Swami reminds us that the truly [Read More…]
Transforming Jealousy into Growth: Lessons from the Vachanamrut
Jealousy—it’s a feeling we all encounter. It creeps in when we see someone else’s success, virtues, or accomplishments. But Bhagwan Swaminarayan offers us a profound way to deal with it: transform jealousy into an opportunity for personal growth. In Gadhada Section 1, Number 4, He says, “One should imbibe the virtues of the person towards whom one is jealous.” Instead of letting jealousy fester into resentment, we can use it as a mirror to reflect on ourselves. What is it about this person that evokes envy? Is it their discipline, kindness, or resilience? Focus on learning from them, adapting their [Read More…]
A Lesson in Humility and Love: A Heartwarming Moment with Mahant Swami Maharaj
On the 20th of August, 2016, in Sarangpur, a beautiful and touching moment unfolded, leaving an indelible mark on all who witnessed it. During a gathering, Mahant Swami Maharaj was blessing the devotees who had gathered with devotion and love. Among them was a devotee named Shyamal Bhai, holding his young son, Jitendra, in his arms. As Swamishri placed his gentle hand on Jitendra’s head, blessing him with boundless love, the little boy, in his pure innocence, reached out his tiny hands to bless Swamishri in return. Shyamal Bhai, a bit embarrassed, quickly moved to pull his son’s hand down, [Read More…]