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जहाँ आत्मा है, मात्र वहीं बल है || आचार्य प्रशांत (2017)
आचार्य प्रशांत
17.7K views
6 years ago
Shiva
Shakti
Soul
Strength
Upanishads
Effort
Victory
Expression
Description

Acharya Prashant explains that energy and strength are fundamentally linked to the soul. When an action is rooted in the soul, one finds an inexhaustible source of energy. He uses the metaphor of Shiva and Shakti, stating that where there is Shiva (the soul), there is Shakti (power). He emphasizes that external sources of motivation or energy, like tonics or borrowed inspiration, are temporary and costly, whereas the energy arising from the soul is limitless. While the body has physical limits, the mind should remain limitless and rooted in the soul. He illustrates this with the example of warriors who continue to fight despite severe injuries, showing that true strength is mental and spiritual, not just physical. He further discusses the importance of strength in spiritual life, citing the Upanishadic principle that the soul cannot be attained by the weak. He argues that a lack of strength often indicates a disconnection from the soul. True strength is not egoistic but arises from a deep spiritual center. He points out that even acts of surrender, like Angulimal surrendering to Buddha, require great inner strength. He notes that Indian deities are often depicted with weapons, symbolizing that one must have the strength to wield a sword to truly understand the Vedas. Victory over oneself and one's senses is essential for both worldly and spiritual success. Acharya Prashant critiques laziness and lack of effort, stating that success comes from 'Udyam' (effort), not just 'Manorath' (desire). He uses the analogy of a sleeping lion who must still hunt to eat. He stresses that one's character is revealed in every action, whether on a football field or in daily life. Life's purpose is the full expression of Shakti, while remaining unattached at the level of the soul. He warns against making failure a habit or a character trait, as the soul is meant for those who conquer themselves. Ultimately, he explains that the mind and body should serve the soul, and any failure in effort is a failure to honor the divine within.