The holy Bible describes the seven virtues of Chastity, Temperance, Charity, Diligence, Kindness, Patience and humility as the pathway to heaven.
The 'Satsang Diksha', based on the teachings of Lord Swaminarayan, Mahant Swami Maharaj describes the philosophical principles to be understood and the daily personal practices of devotion. In Verse 274, He writes:
“Dharma-niyam pālvāthi jivan unnat thāy chhe ane anyane pan sadāchār pālvāni prernā male chhe.”
“Observing dharma and niyams elevates the quality of one’s life and also inspires others to live righteously.”
The Vachanamrut is a historical collection of 273 spiritual discourses delivered by Bhagwan Swãminãrãyan. Here he describes that, the 39 redemptive virtues mentioned in the Shrimad Bhagwat can be attained through association with a saint who has mastered these.
We hope that this festival and this Annakut has inspired you in some small way towards better living and nobler thinking. Contribute towards this festival by adding some colored sweets into the festival logo.
As we celebrate the Festival of Inspiration, lose ourselves in the ocean of divine virtues and through the various food sculptures, learn about the lives of the rishis, mystics, deities and sages of Hinduism and the life of his Holiness Pramukh Swami, let us gain inspiration and promise to live virtuous lives. Let us all strive to be role models for our families, our friends, our nation and the world. As Sant Kabir once said, “When you were born, you cried, and the world rejoiced. Live your life in such a manner that when you die, the world cries and you rejoice.”