Cultivating Divine Qualities

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Chapter 16 of the Bhagavad Gita describes a set of qualities classified as 'daivi sampat' (divine wealth) which every spiritual aspirant ought to cultivate. These are eternal values which purify the mind and make the spiritual aspirant fit to receive higher knowledge of the Self.

The Bhagavad Gita also describes the opposite of these divine qualities as 'asuri sampat' - demoniacal qualities which are to be avoided. A purified mind is like a dry matchstick that catches the fire of knowledge instantly while an impure mind is like a damp matchstick.

Purity of mind essentially means objectivity and the absence of complexities which lead to subjective perception of reality. Like the sun seen through a coloured glass, our mental conditioning over many births hinders us from perceiving reality objectively.

Contemplation on these divine qualities is an elevating spiritual practice in itself. It will help us to clarify our understanding of these value systems and redouble our commitment to their diligent practice in daily life.

In the beginning, a spiritual aspirant has to make a conscious effort to practice them. Also, one has to carefully identify all thoughts and behaviour patterns which go against these values and correct them. Gradually, as our real life experiences deepen our understanding of these values, they will soak into our mind and intellect deeply and become one with our personality.

Finally, a stage will come when the practice of these values becomes natural to our personality and conduct, there is no more struggle to practice them or avoid their opposites.

What is it that hinders us from practising these values? First, is the lack of sufficient clarity about the value and the benefits that accrue through its practice. For example, consider the 'value' of money. There is no human being on earth who does not value money because we all understand the power and comforts that money can buy. We see it everyday and therefore there is no doubt about its value. Hence, there is nobody who will question the value of earning money.