Overcoming Fear, Pure Food, Spiritual Knowledge
Inspiration from Hindu Philosophy by Obi Okorougo
In the wee hours of the day, after my usual morning run, I sat down to read a short e-book on Fear--written by a wise Hindu Philosopher. Many of his points about fear and how to overcome it were spot-on, inspiring me to read deeper into Hindu philosophy. Many of the texts I came across mentioned observing sāttva, or having a sāttvic diet, or being a sāttvika individual (one who performs sāttvic actions). So naturally, I researched a bit more about sāttva, and was pleasantly surprised by what I found.
Here are some excerpts from the greatest source of knowledge ever known to man (Wikipedia.):
Sāttvic Objects
For an object or food to be sāttvika, it must be uncontaminated and should not spread evil or disease in the world. On the contrary its presence must purify the surroundings. Thus when an individual consumes such a food, he must feel that he is eating pure food. The food should be healthy, nutritious and clean. It should also not weaken the power or equilibrium of mind. This idea disallows aphrodisiac or other drugs and intoxicants that can affect the mind in such a way. It also disallows food or objects obtained after killing or causing pain to a creature. This is because the object would then have source in an evil act. It also excludes stale and pungent-smelling food.
Sāttvic Creatures
A sāttvika individual always works for the welfare of the world. He is always hardworking, alert, and lives life moderately. He leads a chaste life. He eats moderately. He speaks the truth and is bold. He never uses vulgar or insulting language. He does not feel jealous nor is he affected by greed and selfishness. He does not cheat or mislead anyone. He does not even allow any evil tendencies to enter his mind. He has good memory and concentration. He also has keen interest in improving his spiritual knowledge, and spends time worshiping god or meditating. In the extreme state he may even perform penance or uninterrupted meditation. A sāttvic individual can be recognized if his mind, speech and actions synchronize.
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Here’s to living with purity and awareness on this beautiful day and the many to come.
Listen to this sāttvic song:
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Comments
Sri Swami Sivananda was the man’s name, and conquesting fear was his game. Quite a good read. Worth reading that is.
Who was the wise philosopher? These are certainly principles or guidelines to live up to. Each day is another opportunity to focus on incorporating one more into our lives, granted most individuals I know do some of these but not all. I have yet to meet someone who lives as a sattvika creature.