“Man is the replica of God in miniature.” This is one of many profound utterances of Swami Paramananda during the spiritual retreat that was held from the 12th to 14th March 2010 at the Prashant Ashram, Dubreuil, Mauritius. Deep contemplation on this statement will convey great insight on our true nature and inevitably lead us towards God-union.
The retreat was earnestly embraced by about 450 disciples who daily spent three hours in meditation, besides the one hour discourse by the Spiritual Master. Pin drop silence was observed during meditation sessions and this no doubt reveals the success of the retreat.
Swamiji’s opening words revealed how observance of discipline is merely a means towards purification; it helps to reach the meditative state but is not the essential part of the spiritual journey. During the retreat, Swami Paramananda disclosed esoteric teachings pertaining to theology, cosmology, astrology and on the last day, gems on devotion flowed out towards the disciples. Emphasis was on developing awareness – watching the mind with all our attention – since inner silence can be experienced only in the no-thought state.
Swamiji explained about the grandeur and immeasurability of God who pervades the entire creation. He said that God is to be experienced, enjoyed and is a matter of celebration. Swamiji correlated man with the universe given that whatever is happening in the universe is also happening at a smaller scale in the life of man. Disciples had the privilege to capture the quintessence of devotion both from the Master’s discourses and by letting go of themselves in the elevating atmosphere filled with heartrending, soul-stirring devotional songs sung by some disciples.
Indubitably, these are special sessions that invigorate the disciple with spiritual stamina, willpower and above all the Master’s vibrations and blessings to ascend on the spiritual ladder. Let this become an incentive for others to take up spiritual life under the guidance of the Swami Paramananda.
