
Sastras classify human activities into good and evil. Helping others and talking gently without hurting are some examples of good deeds. Telling lies and causing harm to others are examples of evil deeds. Sastras also help us perform good deeds. Lord Krishna says shastras are the ultimate authority (Tasmat sastram pramanam tey — Bhagavad Gita Chapter 16-Verse 24). Saint poet Thiruvalluvar says to hasten to do good and virtuous deeds before the tongue fails and the last hiccup comes (Nachetru vikkulmel — kural 335).
Thanneer Palli Sri Krishnan Swamy said in a discourse that God is pleased with our good deeds and becomes displeased if we commit evil deeds. God will only create a congenial and conducive atmosphere, and it is up to the people to utilise and exploit the opportunity. To enrich ourselves with self-realisation, we should approach good Acharyas and noblemen. We can’t remain idle without trying to say that everything will be as per God’s resolve. It will be like a mother who helps her child to walk from crawling, and only the child has to take steps.
The Vedas say those who aspire to liberation should surrender at the feet of God. The Ramayana explains the same concept. All the celestials surrendered to Lord Vishnu to protect them from Ravana’s atrocities. Lakshmana surrendered to accompany Sri Rama to the forest. Bharata surrendered to get Sri Rama’s divine sandals. Sugreeva surrendered to slay his brother Vaali. Kakasura surrendered to excuse and spare him. Of all the surrenders, the surrender of Vibhishana is considered significant because he surrendered praying for absolute liberation.
In “Sri Pancharatra Samhita,” Goddess Mahalakshmi says she and Her divine consort, Lord Vishnu, are too pleased with those who follow and practice the shastras and do not transgress them.
Published – April 28, 2025 04:55 am IST