This article has been transcribed and shared in the words of Guruji Mahavishnu
Many people struggle with the question of how to live a compassionate life when faced with seemingly contradictory teachings from spiritual masters. Vallalar, the great Tamil saint, emphasized Jeevakarunyaolukkam, or compassion towards all living beings. On the other hand, Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita advocates for standing up for righteousness (dharma), even if it means going to war and taking lives. This leads to a fundamental question: which path should one follow?
Compassion Beyond Calmness: Vallalar’s Perspective
Vallalar is often celebrated for his deep compassion, but it’s important to understand that his compassion was not limited to being calm and helping others. In certain situations, Vallalar exhibited what might be seen as anger or forceful energy, not out of malice, but as a way to teach important lessons.
For instance, one day, while traveling, Vallalar encountered a group of thieves. Instead of reacting with fear or retreat, he simply looked at the thieves with anger. This wasn’t ordinary anger, but a form of conscious anger, meant to impart a lesson. The thieves, sensing this powerful energy, did not approach him and instead, apologized and left. This incident shows that Vallalar, even in his wisdom, could exhibit human emotions like anger when necessary, but it was always controlled and purposeful.
The Silent Wisdom of Vallalar
Vallalar’s compassion also involved deep wisdom and understanding of the natural order. There is a story of Vallalar crying after a disciple visited him. When asked why he was crying, Vallalar revealed that the disciple would die in six months. Despite knowing this, Vallalar did not warn the disciple or attempt to alter his fate, even though he had the power to do so.
This restraint highlights a key aspect of true compassion: respecting the natural order and not intervening against the course of nature. Vallalar understood that some things are beyond human control and should be accepted as part of the divine will.
The Balance Between Compassion and Justice
In situations where adharma (unrighteousness) prevails, it is not compassionate to remain silent. Vallalar teaches that when injustice occurs, one must raise their voice and act to uphold dharma. This form of compassion is not passive; it requires courage and sometimes, even the use of force for the greater good.
True compassion, therefore, is not about allowing others to misuse your kindness. It’s about standing up for what is right and just, even if it involves confrontation. If your intentions are pure and aligned with the divine will, your actions, no matter how forceful, will lead to a good outcome.
Krishna’s Support for Righteous Action
Lord Krishna, in the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizes that when adharma rises, those who stand up for righteousness with courage and integrity will be supported by the divine. Krishna represents not just a person, but a cosmic energy or character that embodies dharma. To have Krishna “born” in your home means to cultivate this divine energy within your life.
Nurturing Divine Energy: Preparing for a Wisdom Child
Spiritual practices can be instrumental for those seeking to bring divine energy into their lives, especially during pregnancy. Pregnant women can engage in the Nishtai and Sirchabai stages of Paramporul Yogam. These practices help channel universal energy into the unborn child, nurturing a soul that is aligned with wisdom and divine purpose.
However, breathing exercises should be avoided during pregnancy. When performed correctly, breathing exercises are expected to give the child wisdom and divine energy.
Conclusion: Compassion as Courageous Action
In conclusion, compassion is not merely about being calm and passively helping others. It also involves making courageous decisions for the welfare of others, standing up for righteousness, and sometimes, even using force when necessary. True compassion means being willing to sacrifice oneself for the greater good, and in doing so, one’s soul attains eternal happiness, even if it means facing death in the process.
Lord Krishna assures that those who courageously advocate dharma will always have divine support. Therefore, compassion is not just about peace and calm; it’s also about justice, courage, and righteous action for the welfare of all beings.