All the above shall ponder deeply in their mind My object in writing this Shikshapatri – which is to ensure ultimate good for all living beings.
All the above shall ponder deeply in their mind My object in writing this Shikshapatri – which is to ensure ultimate good for all living beings.
Lord Swaminarayan focuses here upon the very essence of what the Shikshapatri is and its objective: Sarvajivahitavaha - this Shikshapatri is for the benefit of mankind. It is to save innumerable souls from the bondage of Karma and hence to free the many from repeated births and deaths. It is an instrument through which we derive eternal happiness and which can provide success in this life. For these reasons we are urged to take note of the contents of the Shikshapatri and to follow it implicitly.
Whenever we buy a device or machine of some sort, we are provided with an instruction or operation manual. This gives us all the information we need to get the most out of that machine and to ensure it's proper use. The Shikshapatri is an instruction manual for life. For proper use of this body, for correct living procedure, for a successful life and to get the most out of life, we must study this Shikshapatri and follow all the instructions therein.
It is imperative that we all understand clearly the message in the Shikshapatri so that we can reach a stage where we are willing to follow the Shikshapatri fully without question. Only if we understand the Shikshapatri by really digesting and analysing the Shikshapatri and not just reading it half-heartedly, will we ever truly appreciate the great message of this Shikshapatri, it’s specific aim and it's greatness.
The contents of this Shikshapatri are such to make the mind strong and immovable by external influences such as those associated with living in the West. It is important that we in the West are able to discover our true identity, our heritage and our culture. We must not forget our Indian and Hindu background and therefore we must identify with our Hindu beliefs and laws of conduct. Only by adopting these higher disciplines passed down to us by our great Rishis, will we ever be sheltered by God’s favour in this life and hence consolidate a pleasant after life.
We all have been fortunate to be born in this life as Satsangis under the guiding hand of Lord Swaminarayan. We have been introduced to the fundamentals of Hinduism and of righteous conduct. This provides us with a great chance to be released from the enslavement of repeated births and deaths which brings nothing but suffering. Such a rare opportunity may not be acquired ever again and so we must make the most of it.
All that is asked of us is that we live in accordance with the Shikshapatri. Such action will promote us to the heavens and derive an eternity of peace and happiness. Who but a fool would give up such an offer and an opportunity?