Date: Sat, 19 Nov 2011 21:33:47
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: "Pavitra Deva" pwKlauss@springnet...
Subject: Name of Your Baby
Baba
Namaskar,
When Baba held DMC in our Berlin Sector, then Baba Himself was emphasizing the importance of Sanskrit names. Time and again He beautifully explained the meaning of various names and on multiple occasions Baba also corrected the then PA Dada Ramanandaji's pronunciation of Sanskrit names, or even changed the name itself to one having a spiritual meaning.
Surrounding this, one beautiful scene comes to mind.
During one DMC we held our usual kaoshikii and tandava contests & when Dada Ramanandaji called out the names of those involved then he announced the name of one sister named Ama'vati.
Immediately Baba pointed out that this name meant 'darkness' or 'new moon'. Then and there, in front of one and all, Baba graciously told that her name should be Jyotismati, meaning 'divine effulgence'. In that special way our sister took on this new name - one with a truly spiritual meaning.
Certainly this was Baba's blessing upon that sister and the society. The overall idea is that Baba gives great emphasis on the proper use of Sanskrit names, both with respect to pronunciation and meaning.
A name then is not just a word per se. It is an important reminder to both the named and the person addressing that individual that we live in a God-centered universe. This helps spiritualise one's daily life experience and reminds us of our Goal.
Thus not any name will do - names should be given based on this spiritual ideal.
Choosing a name based on the sound of the word, or issuing a name that lacks a devotional meaning is not part of our AM system. Yet, on occasion - or even more frequently - this has been known to happen.
When names are such an essential element of our life as sadhakas, we should take the opportunity to carefully review this important topic.
As we all know, Baba has placed tremendous emphasis on the use of Sanskrit names. We are to use them in all circumstances - cent-per-cent of the time.
Baba says, "At the time of initiation or shortly afterwards, those who do not have a Sanskrit name should be given one by the A'carya." (CC-I, p.6, 1995 Ed.)
Baba says, "The Sanskrit name should be used in all worldly dealings." (CC-I p. 7, 1995 Ed.)
That is why in our Marga, we all receive a Sanskrit name as soon as we enter AM and that name should be used pervasively, in all aspects of our life.
Unfortunately quite commonly, outside of India, many use their Sanskrit name only at the time of dharmacakra or only when talking to margiis etc. In their daily or professional life, or even when communicating with their spouse, they may fail to use their Sanskrit name. This is one point for us all to be careful about.
At the same time we must be aware that not every Sanskrit name is appropriate, as depicted in the above story of that DMC.
To ensure proper Sanskrit names are given, Baba has specifically detailed names that are of spiritual value. Every acarya has this list / booklet. Those are the names that are to be used in our Ananda Marga at the time of initiation. But it does not always happen like that.
Of course, a large majority of the names in Sanskrit are "good" or "acceptable" for use in AM. By "good" or "acceptable", we mean that that Sanskrit name directly refers refers to Parama Purusa Himself or one of His divine qualities.
Names like Purusottama (Cosmic Nucleus), Liila (His Divine Play), Kpra Devii (Personification of His Divine Grace) and Divyamurti (Embodiment of God) are ideal in that they remind us of the presence of Parama Purusa.
However, there are many Sanskrit names that fail miserably in this regard.
Names like Brinjal (eggplant) as well as other Sanskrit names meaning rice, chili, and other food items are not our ideal. Yet these Sankrit names are also used in the general society and, on occasion, sneak into our Marga.
Plus various names such as the highly popular surname Singha, meaning lion, are based on the animals. Yet we know that according to the cycle of brahmacakra, human life is the veritable movement away from our baser animalistic vrittis towards our inherent sublime nature, i.e. life divine. So there is no value - rather it is detrimental - to have a
Sanskrit name that refers to an animal. This is also a point of caution.
Finally, there are some Sanskrit names like Khendi and Puddan, which do not mean something that is not very glorified. And there are so many other examples. Then there is the so-called Sanskrit name, Pheku, meaning garbage, That also is obviously not up to the requisite standard.
In addition, in India, they begun giving Sanskrit names that are actually verbs or adjectives, not nouns. One such name is Chalati which is a verb meaning "to go".
People choose such names because they feel they are unique. That is the new trend.
Whether one is born inside or outside of India, regardless of our local traditions etc, we should ensure that our Sanskrit names are of proper meaning. If you have any question, consult your local acarya.
Another critical facet of this discussion is the use of nicknames. All too often family members or close friends give nicknames to their close people. Normally these nickname are given when people are very young, such as when we are 4 or 5 years old, or during student life.
You have all heard them. Names like Pinky, Rinky, Tee-tee, Lulu, Bessy, Beansie etc. Often these names rhyme with our given name or are given for just some silly reason, albeit with good intention.
Actually, when I was in India, I was surprised to see how each family member often has a non-spiritual nickname which all the other family members call them. In that way, they pass the bulk of the life being called a name that has virtually no sense and zero spiritual import.
Wherever we live, we should all be wary and conscious of the use of nicknames - they should not replace our given Sanskrit name.
Finally, there are two other common words to discuss associated with naming. The first is Kumar and the second is Deva.
At present, many in AM seem to attach Kumar to their name. Names like Devesh Kumar, Krsna Kumar, Jayanta Kumar, Chandranath Kumar and the like are quite common.
Yet Kumar (kaoma'ra) refers to that state of life when one is immature.
Baba says, "Childhood, or kaoma'ra." (SS-21)
In those early years of life, children needlessly break and destroy their toys for no apparent reason and constantly switch from one task to the next, unable to concentrate on anything for any period of time. That is what kaomara means: the life of a child when all kinds of silly or senseless things are done.
Here my intent is not to criticise children - they have their natural dharma. Childhood is part of the growing process. Only the point is that we should not attach that idea or identity with our Sanskrit name by adding the suffix Kumar. That is not our AM system - that is some folk manner from the traditions of old.
If we wish to append any word to our Sanskrit name then that name should be Deva.
Baba says, "Now, the word “deva” comes from the root word “div”. “Div” means “a divine existence”. So “deva” means “a divine existence”." (AV-3)
Baba says, "The word deva should be suffixed to the name. Every person is at liberty to use his/her own surname, but the more the usage of deva as a title, the better it is." (CC-1)
Thus we should link our Sanskrit names with Deva, not Kumar.
By Baba's grace when a proper Sanskrit name is given that that brings all kinds of beauty in life: Both to the individual and the society. It reminds us of the eternal presence of Parama Purusa and keeps us ever-focused on the divine nature of human life.
When we seek names for our own children we should keep in mind all of the above. Then their names will serve them well for their entire life.
Those who are devotees can easily understand these points - others may not.
We should be vigilant to ensure that only proper Sanskrit names are used in our units and that we use these Sanskrit names in all circumstances and conditions.
Baba says "If Sam'skrta is used human unity will be encouraged and human beings will move closer together." (PNS-17)
Baba says, "Today not even the Pacific Ocean between Asia and America is difficult to cross. The people of Asia and America are touching each other's minds and have learned to accept each other sympathetically as their own. Europe, Africa, Australia, Mercury, Jupiter, the stars, the comets, the constellations - none of them is alien to the other, none is distant from another. Gradually everyone has begun to realise the vibration of the One Integral Mind." (AFPS-1)
Namaskar,
Pavitra Deva
Baba tells in SS part III that those not established on the path of spirituality are shy to practice in front of others.
Baba says, "Those who are reared in the cradle of materialistic ideologies, feel shy or ashamed at first to sit in meditation in the presence of others." (SS pt 3, p.86)
Those who lack a deeper sense of deep devotion feel shy to reveal themselves as an Ananda Margiis, and most of the time they do not like to tell or use their own Sanskrit name - or the Sanskrit names of others.
But this is only because of their weakness of the mind and lack of proper moral strength. So we should not be affected by this. Rather we should instill within that person the requisite strength, courage, and devotional confidence to move ahead in the right way.
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: "Pavitra Deva" pwKlauss@springnet...
Subject: Name of Your Baby
Baba
== NAME OF YOUR BABY ==
Namaskar,
When Baba held DMC in our Berlin Sector, then Baba Himself was emphasizing the importance of Sanskrit names. Time and again He beautifully explained the meaning of various names and on multiple occasions Baba also corrected the then PA Dada Ramanandaji's pronunciation of Sanskrit names, or even changed the name itself to one having a spiritual meaning.
Surrounding this, one beautiful scene comes to mind.
STORY HOW BABA BLESSES AND CORRECTS HER SANSKRIT NAME
During one DMC we held our usual kaoshikii and tandava contests & when Dada Ramanandaji called out the names of those involved then he announced the name of one sister named Ama'vati.
Immediately Baba pointed out that this name meant 'darkness' or 'new moon'. Then and there, in front of one and all, Baba graciously told that her name should be Jyotismati, meaning 'divine effulgence'. In that special way our sister took on this new name - one with a truly spiritual meaning.
Certainly this was Baba's blessing upon that sister and the society. The overall idea is that Baba gives great emphasis on the proper use of Sanskrit names, both with respect to pronunciation and meaning.
NAMES ARE NOT JUST WORDS BUT SPIRITUAL REMINDERS
A name then is not just a word per se. It is an important reminder to both the named and the person addressing that individual that we live in a God-centered universe. This helps spiritualise one's daily life experience and reminds us of our Goal.
Thus not any name will do - names should be given based on this spiritual ideal.
Choosing a name based on the sound of the word, or issuing a name that lacks a devotional meaning is not part of our AM system. Yet, on occasion - or even more frequently - this has been known to happen.
When names are such an essential element of our life as sadhakas, we should take the opportunity to carefully review this important topic.
USING SANSKRIT NAMES: 24 / 7
As we all know, Baba has placed tremendous emphasis on the use of Sanskrit names. We are to use them in all circumstances - cent-per-cent of the time.
Baba says, "At the time of initiation or shortly afterwards, those who do not have a Sanskrit name should be given one by the A'carya." (CC-I, p.6, 1995 Ed.)
Baba says, "The Sanskrit name should be used in all worldly dealings." (CC-I p. 7, 1995 Ed.)
That is why in our Marga, we all receive a Sanskrit name as soon as we enter AM and that name should be used pervasively, in all aspects of our life.
Unfortunately quite commonly, outside of India, many use their Sanskrit name only at the time of dharmacakra or only when talking to margiis etc. In their daily or professional life, or even when communicating with their spouse, they may fail to use their Sanskrit name. This is one point for us all to be careful about.
NOT ALL SANSKRIT NAMES ARE SPIRITUAL
At the same time we must be aware that not every Sanskrit name is appropriate, as depicted in the above story of that DMC.
To ensure proper Sanskrit names are given, Baba has specifically detailed names that are of spiritual value. Every acarya has this list / booklet. Those are the names that are to be used in our Ananda Marga at the time of initiation. But it does not always happen like that.
Of course, a large majority of the names in Sanskrit are "good" or "acceptable" for use in AM. By "good" or "acceptable", we mean that that Sanskrit name directly refers refers to Parama Purusa Himself or one of His divine qualities.
Names like Purusottama (Cosmic Nucleus), Liila (His Divine Play), Kpra Devii (Personification of His Divine Grace) and Divyamurti (Embodiment of God) are ideal in that they remind us of the presence of Parama Purusa.
However, there are many Sanskrit names that fail miserably in this regard.
Names like Brinjal (eggplant) as well as other Sanskrit names meaning rice, chili, and other food items are not our ideal. Yet these Sankrit names are also used in the general society and, on occasion, sneak into our Marga.
Plus various names such as the highly popular surname Singha, meaning lion, are based on the animals. Yet we know that according to the cycle of brahmacakra, human life is the veritable movement away from our baser animalistic vrittis towards our inherent sublime nature, i.e. life divine. So there is no value - rather it is detrimental - to have a
Sanskrit name that refers to an animal. This is also a point of caution.
Finally, there are some Sanskrit names like Khendi and Puddan, which do not mean something that is not very glorified. And there are so many other examples. Then there is the so-called Sanskrit name, Pheku, meaning garbage, That also is obviously not up to the requisite standard.
In addition, in India, they begun giving Sanskrit names that are actually verbs or adjectives, not nouns. One such name is Chalati which is a verb meaning "to go".
People choose such names because they feel they are unique. That is the new trend.
Whether one is born inside or outside of India, regardless of our local traditions etc, we should ensure that our Sanskrit names are of proper meaning. If you have any question, consult your local acarya.
NICKNAMES
Another critical facet of this discussion is the use of nicknames. All too often family members or close friends give nicknames to their close people. Normally these nickname are given when people are very young, such as when we are 4 or 5 years old, or during student life.
You have all heard them. Names like Pinky, Rinky, Tee-tee, Lulu, Bessy, Beansie etc. Often these names rhyme with our given name or are given for just some silly reason, albeit with good intention.
Actually, when I was in India, I was surprised to see how each family member often has a non-spiritual nickname which all the other family members call them. In that way, they pass the bulk of the life being called a name that has virtually no sense and zero spiritual import.
Wherever we live, we should all be wary and conscious of the use of nicknames - they should not replace our given Sanskrit name.
KUMAR AND DEVA
Finally, there are two other common words to discuss associated with naming. The first is Kumar and the second is Deva.
At present, many in AM seem to attach Kumar to their name. Names like Devesh Kumar, Krsna Kumar, Jayanta Kumar, Chandranath Kumar and the like are quite common.
Yet Kumar (kaoma'ra) refers to that state of life when one is immature.
Baba says, "Childhood, or kaoma'ra." (SS-21)
In those early years of life, children needlessly break and destroy their toys for no apparent reason and constantly switch from one task to the next, unable to concentrate on anything for any period of time. That is what kaomara means: the life of a child when all kinds of silly or senseless things are done.
Here my intent is not to criticise children - they have their natural dharma. Childhood is part of the growing process. Only the point is that we should not attach that idea or identity with our Sanskrit name by adding the suffix Kumar. That is not our AM system - that is some folk manner from the traditions of old.
If we wish to append any word to our Sanskrit name then that name should be Deva.
Baba says, "Now, the word “deva” comes from the root word “div”. “Div” means “a divine existence”. So “deva” means “a divine existence”." (AV-3)
Baba says, "The word deva should be suffixed to the name. Every person is at liberty to use his/her own surname, but the more the usage of deva as a title, the better it is." (CC-1)
Thus we should link our Sanskrit names with Deva, not Kumar.
BABA'S BLESSING
By Baba's grace when a proper Sanskrit name is given that that brings all kinds of beauty in life: Both to the individual and the society. It reminds us of the eternal presence of Parama Purusa and keeps us ever-focused on the divine nature of human life.
When we seek names for our own children we should keep in mind all of the above. Then their names will serve them well for their entire life.
Those who are devotees can easily understand these points - others may not.
We should be vigilant to ensure that only proper Sanskrit names are used in our units and that we use these Sanskrit names in all circumstances and conditions.
Baba says "If Sam'skrta is used human unity will be encouraged and human beings will move closer together." (PNS-17)
Baba says, "Today not even the Pacific Ocean between Asia and America is difficult to cross. The people of Asia and America are touching each other's minds and have learned to accept each other sympathetically as their own. Europe, Africa, Australia, Mercury, Jupiter, the stars, the comets, the constellations - none of them is alien to the other, none is distant from another. Gradually everyone has begun to realise the vibration of the One Integral Mind." (AFPS-1)
Namaskar,
Pavitra Deva
Note: WHY SHYNESS TO USE SANSKRIT NAMES IN THE WEST
Baba tells in SS part III that those not established on the path of spirituality are shy to practice in front of others.
Baba says, "Those who are reared in the cradle of materialistic ideologies, feel shy or ashamed at first to sit in meditation in the presence of others." (SS pt 3, p.86)
Those who lack a deeper sense of deep devotion feel shy to reveal themselves as an Ananda Margiis, and most of the time they do not like to tell or use their own Sanskrit name - or the Sanskrit names of others.
But this is only because of their weakness of the mind and lack of proper moral strength. So we should not be affected by this. Rather we should instill within that person the requisite strength, courage, and devotional confidence to move ahead in the right way.
PRABHAT SAMGIITA
PS intro: This song is a metaphor. The flower garden and grass lawn
represent the life of a struggling devotee. The rains signify the
showering of His grace. The darkness represents mental agony and the
allotted path refers 16 Points, do's and don'ts, and conduct rules. This
is a mystical song that should not be taken literally or at face-value.
Keeping this in mind, please read the following purport.
"A'ma'r bhuvane ka'lo haye a'che, a'lora devata' a'jao ele na'..." (PS 1232)
Purport:
My world is dark, the Lord of effulgence did not come even today. The flower bud could not blossom, nor could nectar be stored in the flower core.
The rains did not come. Due to lack of water, scorching heat, and fiery winds, the flower garden and the grass lawn could not survive.
My heart is dry. Even my rehearsed song I am unable to sing. I cannot follow the allotted tune; I could not move on the path You provided.
"Without Your grace, nothing can happen": This essential truth I did not understand.
That is why the showering of Your grace did not happen on me. I was thinking that I can do anything and everything by myself, and solve all the problems alone. My ego became dominant. My heart was dry and life became listless and burdensome. Baba, because of my ego I could not realise Your grace.
O' Lord of Effulgence, O' Parama Purusa, please come and make my dark abode filled with effulgence. Baba, please be gracious...
"A'ma'r bhuvane ka'lo haye a'che, a'lora devata' a'jao ele na'..." (PS 1232)
Purport:
My world is dark, the Lord of effulgence did not come even today. The flower bud could not blossom, nor could nectar be stored in the flower core.
The rains did not come. Due to lack of water, scorching heat, and fiery winds, the flower garden and the grass lawn could not survive.
My heart is dry. Even my rehearsed song I am unable to sing. I cannot follow the allotted tune; I could not move on the path You provided.
"Without Your grace, nothing can happen": This essential truth I did not understand.
That is why the showering of Your grace did not happen on me. I was thinking that I can do anything and everything by myself, and solve all the problems alone. My ego became dominant. My heart was dry and life became listless and burdensome. Baba, because of my ego I could not realise Your grace.
O' Lord of Effulgence, O' Parama Purusa, please come and make my dark abode filled with effulgence. Baba, please be gracious...
***************************************
One Should Always Remember
Baba says, "However little one's capacity might be, if one constantly remembers that Parama Purus'a is always with him, that they are in the closest contact with Parama Purus'a, they will be able to do everything. They are not as small as they think themselves to be. And as long as they remember this closest association with Him, they can do much more than ordinary human beings. When this idea becomes permanently established in their minds, they become great. This is why no one should be disappointed or depressed in any circumstances; let everyone constantly perform great deeds, remembering that the flow of their capacity is coming from Parama Purus'a, and thus they can do everything." (AFPS-3, p.62)
***************************************
One Should Always Remember
Baba says, "However little one's capacity might be, if one constantly remembers that Parama Purus'a is always with him, that they are in the closest contact with Parama Purus'a, they will be able to do everything. They are not as small as they think themselves to be. And as long as they remember this closest association with Him, they can do much more than ordinary human beings. When this idea becomes permanently established in their minds, they become great. This is why no one should be disappointed or depressed in any circumstances; let everyone constantly perform great deeds, remembering that the flow of their capacity is coming from Parama Purus'a, and thus they can do everything." (AFPS-3, p.62)
***************************************
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