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THE MOTHER QUESTIONS FOR THE QUARTER

Questions by readers- Answers by The Mother! These answers are in no way definitive; nor do they make any claims to authenticity. These are supposed to answer the seeking. The insights contained in these answers issue from patrons of The Mother, among who are saints, holy men, scholars and advanced seekers. To submit a question, send email to editor.themother@gmail.com. Do not feel disappointed if The Mother does not publish the answer to your questions. The Editorial Board will choose questions to be published in The Mother depending upon its significance and service to the spiritual seekers at large. However, we will strive to answer most queries and personally communicate the answers to those who put forth genuine queries. Editor.

ANSWERS BY MA SARADA DEVI

Q.

Mother, what is the secret?

Answer.

She pointed to a small timepiece in a niche and said, “As that timepiece is ticking, so also go on repeating God’s Name. That will bring you everything. Nothing more needs be done.”

Q.

I understand that everyone must face their Prarabdha then why do many Stotras and Scriptures say that by reading them all sins of previous births are waived off or all wishes can come true.

Answer.

One has to suffer the consequences of one’s deeds. But by repeating the Name of God, you can lessen its intensity. If you were destined to have a wound as wide as a ploughshare, you will get a pin-prick at least. The effect of Karma can be counteracted to a great extent by Japa and austerities.”

Q.

I cannot calm my mind and concentrate

Answer.

It can be done if one repeats the Name fifteen or twenty thousand times each day. I have seen it actually happen. Let him do that first and talk afterwards if it fails. One must put one’s mind to it. But no, no one will do that. They only complain ‘Why does nothing come of it?'

Q.

What if I cannot do Japa in the morning?

Answer.

One should practise Japa and meditation at regular times giving up idleness. While living at Dakshineswar I used to get up at 3 o’clock in the morning and practise Japa and meditation. One day I felt a little indisposed and left the bed rather late. The next day, I woke up still late through laziness. Gradually I found that I did not feel inclined to get up early at all. Then I said to myself, ‘Ah, at last I have fallen a victim to idleness.’ Thereupon I began to force myself to get up early. Gradually I got back my former habit. In such matters one should keep up the practice with unyielding resolution.

Q.

I practise Japa, but I cannot concentrate my mind.

Answer.

Repeat the Name of God, whether your mind is concentrated or not. It will be good for you if you can repeat the Name of God for a fixed number of times daily.