Pathways to God by Jonathan Roof, Vol. II

Excerpts shared for educational and spiritual purposes with reverence to the author. This is a non-profit project dedicated to selfless service.

Health: For Gaining this World and the Next 

1. The Human-Temple

Good health normally takes precedence over all other prerequisites for spiritual life. We may fail to accomplish even our most basic goals without a sound body. Not only spiritual aspirations, but also worldly achievements usually require a strong constitution. Yet, through bad habits and wrong actions, we often subject ourselves to bodily harm. Evil thoughts, unhealthy food, and lack of exercise invite illness and injury. The wise person considers how to maintain physical vigour and how to avoid a premature decline of the body. For only through the physical vehicle can we attain God-realization.

“Health is necessary for gaining this world and the next, for earning worldly and other-worldly progress, to realize the very purpose for which the self has embodied itself in this worldly form, namely, to become aware of its source-the paramatma (the universal soul).”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba    Sathya Sai Speakes 11, p.148

Good health flows naturally for most people. Usually the body forgives our small abuses and allows us to pursue our aspirations unimpeded by aches and pains. It heals itself remarkably well if provided with rest and proper diet. The body demands little attention when it receives such basic consideration. Of course, certain birth disorders, contagious diseases, and accidents result in incapacities beyond our immediate control. But for most people ill health only follows such factors as prolonged harmful thoughts, improper food, and lack of exercise. When we use the body to serve others and nourish it with natural foods, good health may be expected.

“When someone asks you, "How do you do?" and you answer, "Quite well, thank you", he does not stop to inquire why you are well. It is only when you answer that you are ill, that he stops and expresses concern and probes into the causes, symptoms and cure of the illness. "Wellness" is natural; illness is unnatural.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba    Sathya Sai Speaks 3, p.209

But consider how, in the name of spiritual discipline, many aspirants subject their bodies to starvation and other forms of mistreatment. Strength, endurance and sharp intellect are sacrificed in the performance of misguided penance. Denying the body its basic needs signals ignorance of the path, not spiritual advancement. Our physical frame must convey us across the river of life. Our progress depends on keeping it strong and worthy. When we treat it well, it requires minimal attention. Preoccupation With the body demonstrates that we lack self-knowledge. Like the egoism that over-glorifies the body, punishing the body also reflects a similar misunderstanding. We should realize that we are not the body or even the personality. Our identity resides with universal divinity.

“Therefore it is man's primary duty not to neglect this holy temple called the body, but to take utmost care for its proper maintenance and for using-it for the discharge of one's duties and obligations in life. Persons who do not recognize this truth subject the body to various ordeals in the name of worship, religious vows, fasting and penance. Thereby they are missing the goal of recognizing the eternal atmic principle (inner divinity). By hitting the anthill can you kill the snake inside it? By subjecting the body to torture, can you realize the atma? By giving up food and water, can you attain liberation? Self-realization is possible only through knowing your own real nature.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba    Indian Culture and Spirituality, p.25

To fly across wide oceans one must purchase a ticket on an airplane. To travel a wave-tossed river one must book passage on a sturdy boat. To achieve spiritual liberation one must maintain a strong and durable body. Through the experience of name and form, that the physical frame allows, we gradually learn that our true identity resides with the universal absolute. Without the trials of earthly life, we cannot overcome the wrong identification which binds us to earthly attachments. Through many births and deaths we slowly become aware that we are the inner witness, the atma. That consciousness resides within us, awaiting our discovery. Only through life on earth can we shed desire for external objects and open our eyes to the truth. Thus the human form presents us with a precious opportunity, for it offers the only means of attaining spiritual liberation.

“The body has to be maintained in good condition, for it is only when embodied in this human tabernacle that man can realize God.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Sathya Sai Speaks 6, p.84

2. Sound Body, Sound Mind

When shopping for fruit in the marketplace, we favour those items with a firm and fresh appearance. The perfume of a ripe mango or the shine of a crisp apple speaks to us about the sweetness of the fruit. The appearance of the fruit reflects its vitality and nutritional qualities. Our own physical appearance also reveals whether or not we live in a healthy manner. Proper nutrition and activity result in a strong body endowed with the glow of health. That physical vigour aids our ascent of the spiritual mountain. It gives us endurance and energy for the climb. It endows us with confidence in our own ability to meet the challenges we face.

However, our mental and spiritual health also impacts our body. Our mind holds great responsibility for our physical well-being. The mind controls most aspects of the body's upkeep. Just as important as our food and activity, our attitudes also contribute to our health. We know that psychosomatic illnesses influence the body. For example, worry and stress may manifest in ulcers and excessive sleep loss. Anger and fear rob us of energy, once the initial rush of adrenaline passes. The mind and the body are inextricably linked. The health of one reflects the health of the other.

“A sound mind ensures a sound body; a sound body ensures a Sound mind. The two are interdependent. Health is essential for happiness; happiness or a capacity to be happy, whatever may happen, is essential for physical health, too.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Sathya Sai Speaks 9, p.126

We who pursue spiritual goals often benefit both physically and mentally from our commitment. By working for the welfare of others, we engage in activities which also serve ourselves. We reduce our own stress by occupying ourselves with the needs of the less fortunate. When concerned for others, we spend less time worrying about our own problems. By participating in projects such as food growing or distribution, we gain physical strength and mental discipline. The commitment of time and energy bolsters our self-esteem and self-satisfaction. Social service focuses the mind on a worthy endeavour, which uplifts the spirit and exercises the body. 

However, if the mind wanders unrestrained by spiritual disciplines, it tends to chase objects of desire. Frequently desire causes the mind to pursue pleasure at the expense of mental and physical health. The abuse of harmful drugs and alcohol may result from such activity. Similarly, those who cater to their own comfort waste valuable time glued to the television or in other unfruitful pursuits. Engaged in such useless activities, they lose golden opportunities for self-improvement. Such mental weakness allows the body to atrophy and the spirit to wilt. Regular practice of spiritual disciplines builds a strong personality. Even small starts lead to great changes. Although progress usually arrives slowly, instant transformations of character may occur. A person who has acted selfishly in the past may suddenly realize the importance of generosity. Or a confirmed smoker may renounce the habit without a second thought. Although Sathya Sai Baba usually allows us to overcome our bad habits gradually, his grace may provide immediate solutions.

Sathya Sai Baba tells the story of an opium addict who sought help from the sage Ramakrishna. Ramakrishna instructed the unfortunate man to carry a small piece of chalk with him at all times. The addict was told that each day he could consume the same weight of opium that was contained in the stick of chalk. However, he was required to write the sacred syllable "Om" on a slate with that chalk each day. Gradually the chalk disappeared and with it the man's habit decreased. Soon that fellow was free from his opium addiction.

When the mind engages in useful work it escapes the grip of wrong desire. A spiritual aspirant who involves himself or herself with service activities, achieves quicker progress than would otherwise be the case. However, before we can release old bad habits we must first grasp a new vision. Inspiration from the teachings of Sathya Sai Baba provides an ideal impetus. The example of Sai, together with the company of likeminded devotees, furnishes invaluable support. As we grow in understanding, we realize our identity with others and we feel compelled to aid in their struggles. Devotion to God endows us with the strength to overcome our own limitations. In addition, when we learn to surrender the results of our actions to God, we release our tension and self-concern. The process contributes to physical health.

“Devotion and morality are as important for physical as they are for mental health. They free the mind from agitation; they feed it with joy and contentment; they quieten the nerves and help even bodily processes.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba    Sathya Sai Speaks 4, p.195

When we release material attachments and desires, we allow the body's energy to flow without restriction. The energy acts like a river. It can only receive a fresh flow of energy when it relinquishes what it has. If the river held back its waters stagnation would result. Similarly, mental restrictions cause tension in the body, which impedes blood flow. Good thoughts and loving actions open our energy pathways and release the unconscious blocks that cause ill health. Positive attitudes promoted by virtuous actions aid both physical and mental health.

“One peculiar fact about these two types of illnesses (physical and mental) is that the cultivation of virtue cures both. Physical health is a prerequisite for mental health and mental health ensures physical health. An attitude of generosity, of fortitude in the presence of sorrow and loss, a spirit of enthusiasm to do good, to be of service to the best of one's capacity; these build up the mind as well as the body.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Sathya Sai Speaks 1, p.137

3. Enemies of Health

Illnesses result from a variety of causes. They may be induced by physical fatigue, an unhealthy environment, genetic failure, improper diet or lack of exercise. Many diseases originate in environmental pollution, viruses, or bacteria. Chronic sickness may even be rooted in events of past lifetimes. Whatever the causes, unhealthy attitudes aggravate the conditions and render us more susceptible to harmful effects. Fear, worry, anger, greed, and despair comprise some of the attitudes that injure health.

Sathya Sai Baba relates the story of a wandering monk who learned the danger of fear. He was walking into a village one day when he met a fearsome female on the road. Inquiring into her identity, he discovered that she was none other than the goddess of cholera. This monk knew that there had recently been a cholera epidemic in the village and he surmised that she had a hand in the trouble. Being an inquisitive fellow he asked the goddess how many victims she had claimed in that town. He knew that approximately l 00 people had died, but he was unsure of the exact count. The cholera goddess replied that she had taken only ten; the rest had died from fear!

Devotion to God prevents or reduces many ills. Positive attitudes endow us with the energy to resist a host of maladies. Saturating the mind with good thoughts protects us like an invisible shield. However, for many purely physical ills, a simple programme of moderate food, rest and recreation also works wonders.

“Illnesses are caused not so much by the food people eat or the conditions in which they live, but by mental weakness and mental attitudes, prejudices and predilections. Desires, disappointments, despair-these also cause diseases. For many illnesses, filling the mind with the thought of God is the curative drug. For the rest, regimented diet, sleep, pastimes and activities are effective cures.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Sathya Sai Speaks 5, p.48

When discussing the mental causes of ill health, Sathya Sai Baba often speaks about the harmful effects of anger. He says that anger poisons the blood and causes lasting harm. A cure may require months of rest to overcome the negative consequences of anger. He recommends that a person should drink a glass of cold water and lie down for some time when afflicted with anger.

Krishna once demonstrated the debilitating effects of anger. A formidable foe by the name of Jarasandha challenged Krishna to battle. Krishna knew that Jarasandha was a very powerful opponent and so he devised a clever plan to overpower him. Krishna repeatedly enraged Jarasandha with taunts and accusations. Nine times he provoked his opponent's anger. But Krishna exercised care in remaining beyond his grasp. Only after Jarasandha had succumbed to nine temper tantrums did Krishna finally engage him in battle. Then, the cumulative effects of Jarasandha's anger had so weakened him that Krishna was easily able to dispatch him.

“Anger is another enemy of good health. It injects poison into the blood stream and brings about profound transformation that damages it.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Sathya Sai Speaks 11, p.150

Loving thoughts of God enable us to overcome the illnesses of greed and envy. One who exercises undue attachment to the body suffers when comparing himself to others who have amassed more possessions. Desires for unnecessary luxuries breed discontent and sorrow. Acceptance and surrender to God allow ease of mind and relaxation of the body.

“What is the root cause of man's sorrow and sickness? Not being content with what he has, and hankering after what he does not have, man forfeits his peace of mind.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Indian Culture and Spirituality, p.31

Of course, some illnesses seem to resist all potential cures. Chronic medical conditions may be rooted in long-held behaviour patterns or even in the events of past lifetimes. For example, if one grievously injured another or acted with callous disregard for the welfare of another in a past lifetime, the result may be a compensating illness in this lifetime. By experiencing the pain that we have caused to others, we resolve to avoid inflicting such pain again. Although we may not be conscious of the cause, we experience the pain that ensues. But until the lesson of noninjury has been learned, the malady may resist conventional cures.

However, with God's grace even the consequences of negative past actions may be overcome. When God's grace is combined with true repentance a rapid cure may follow. Sai Baba tells a story that illustrates the point.

In Kerala State 500 years ago, there lived a man who suffered from intense stomachaches. In search of a cure, he approached a saint by the name of Bilvamangala. Bilvamangala's devotion to Krishna was so great that Krishna appeared to answer his questions when Bilvamangala called. The. man who suffered so intensely asked Bilvamangala to question Krishna regarding the cure for his stomachaches. Krishna responded to the saint's question by replying that "When do rolling stops, it will cease".

Several interpretations of this answer wereoffered. The unfortunate man himself concluded that the pain would case when he ceased physically rolling from side to side. The sage Bilvamanagla took the reply to mean that the ailment was a result " the man's past karma (actions of past lives), "rolling from life to life." However, the matter was finally resolved when the sufferer put the question to a pious lady by the name of Kururamma.

While on a pilgrimage to Kasi, this man met Kururamma at a guest house. He soon learned of her great devotion to God and asked for her interpretation of Krishna's words. She solved the mystery by giving him a holy mantra to repeat. The mantra immediately cured his pain. She explained that Krishna had meant the fellow was "rolling" in the objective world. When he became attached only to God, by repeating the mantra, his ailment ceased. For God can remove all suffering. The Lord can even remove suffering that results from the consequences of past actions.

“You might say that the karma of previous births has to be consumed in this birth and that no amount of grace can save you from that. Evidently someone has taught you to believe so. But I assure you, you need not suffer from karma like that. When a severe pain torments you, the doctor gives you a morphine injection and you do not feel the pain, though it is still there in the body. Grace is like the morphine; the pain is not felt, though you go through it!.... Or the Lord can save a man completely from the consequences, as was done by me for the bhakta (devotee) whose paralytic stroke and heart attacks I took over some months ago in the Gurupournima week.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Sathya Sai Speaks 4, p.154

Devotion to God banishes sickness more effectively than pills and injections. Whatever treatments we rely on can only supplement a strong positive attitude. By cultivating a firm will and belief in our own abilities, we minimize our susceptibility to illness. When we know that we havedone our best to perform our duties, we can hold no fear. Consistent thoughts, words, and deeds endow us with inner strength. Mental and physical infirmities evaporate when we act with faith and confidence.

“Astrong will is the best tonic; the will becomes strong when you know that you arechild of immortality or a person who has earned the grace of the Lord. Medicine and hospitalization are for those who doubt and hesitate and argue about this doctor being more efficient than the other, this drug being more powerful than the rest. For those who rely on the supreme doctor, his name is enough drug.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba  Sathya Sai Speaks 5, p.239

4. Doctors and Hospitals

At some time almost everyone will require the services of a doctor or hospital. Accidents, contagious diseases, or serious illnesses demand prompt medical treatment. Doctors and hospitals play an important role in the cure of many such maladies. Availing oneself of the services of such facilities does not token any lack of faith. In fact, Sathya Sai Baba often recommends standard medical cures to those seeking aid. He has even been known to work through the hands of doctors and surgeons. Devotees have reported seeing Sai Baba in operating rooms where he appears in place of their own surgeon! Conventional medical practice comprises a primary route to follow for the cure of many ills.

But much of the efficacy of standard treatment lies in the faith that patients invest in doctors. Many people feel that they can be only be cured by doctors and elaborate hospital technology. Therefore Sathya Sai Baba encourages patients to seek cures where their faith lies. If they believe in medical machines and arrays of coloured pills, then Sai allows them to follow that path.

“Do not be under the impression that we have this hospital, because I need the help of these doctors and these drugs to cure those who come to me. There are some who desire treatment by the doctors in a hospital; that is the means by which they feel they can be cured. Some are anxious that the doctor must give them an injection; if he doesn't they feel they are neglected. So, 1ask the doctor to give them one, or even a series! There are many who have no faith in anything except tablets and the needle.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba  Sathya Sai Speaks 6, p.83

Modem society promotes technological cures for many of life's difficulties. Particularly in medicine, new machines and pills are introduced at a dizzying pace. Instant solutions are sought by those with little patience for self-discipline. Remedies are prescribed for symptoms, often with minimal regard to the causes of a sickness. In their eagerness to create profits, drug companies sometimes introduce new medicines that induce deleterious side effects. Patients may become addicted to expensive capsules without regard to their harmful long-term effects. Such powerful and unnatural substances often upset the careful balance of the body.

“People now have more faith in medicine than in God. Life is built on capsules and tablets... Even the vanity bags of ladies contain tablets and capsules. Though you may dine on the best of foods, pills are certain to ruin health. You should not make these temporary make-shifts a permanent habit.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Sathya Sai Speaks 7, p.337

Of course, most doctors are conscientious professionals who strive to exercise skill and good judgment. However, their man-made cures often cause new problems when trying to solve old ills. In their efforts to please patients, doctors often prescribe pills and potions without sufficient emphasis on exercise and diet. Many doctors, like their patients, favour modem technology over natural cures. The quick and easy pill is more easily swallowed than changes in lifestyle. Many doctors even engage in the same bad habits, such as smoking or overeating, which they advise patients to avoid. Permanent cures require positive attitudes and good living habits, not magical tablets.

“Try earnestly to live long, without falling into the hands of medical practitioners. When they give you' one injection, they keep another ready to counteract its reactions! While trying to cure one disease, they cause adozen more. Moreover, the drugs they recommend are mostly spurious, since the manufacturers want to amass a fortune by hook or crook. Most illnesses can be cured by simple living, simple exercises and by intelligent control of the tongue.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Sathya Sai Speaks 11, p.151

Responsibility for our health rests with us. If we depend on others for our bodily maintenance, we lose self-confidence and self-sufficiency. Reliance on our own abilities contributes to health and self-realization. A programme of exercise, good diet, and proper attitudes bestows clarity of mind and strength of body.

“So long as you are alive, you should keep your body healthy, your mind and vision steady. You should enjoy the bliss of the atma (inner divinity) by this means. You should not weaken and neglect the body so as to fall into the hands of others for help and become dependent on them. Keep your body healthy so that you can use it well.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Summer Showers 1973, p.94

5. Edibles and Effort

A driver watches for signs to determine when his automobile requires gasoline, oil or water, or other care. Dashboard indicators and inspection reveal the lack of vital fluids. He also recognizes that his vehicle must be driven to charge the battery. Lack of use or improper fuel will inevitably provoke trouble. But do we apply the same common sense to our own upkeep? The body requires proper food and exercise, but do we exercise the body by serving others? Do we fuel the body with the most healthy foods available? If not, how will it perform to meet our expectations? When we engage in a programme of service to others and devotion to God, the body gradually accepts a regimen of healthy and disciplined living.

“The body becomes healthy by exercise and work; the mind becomes healthy by upasana (worship) and namasmarana (repetition of God's name); by regular well-planned discipline, joyfully accepted and joyfully carried out.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Sathya Sai Speaks 3, p.49

Many people could profit by performing more of the chores around their own homes and businesses. The maintenance and appearance of their surroundings would improve and their own health would benefit. Today, though, many people believe that their dignity suffers when they are observed doing such chores. It is a foolish notion bred of egoism. By employing servants such individuals sacrifice their health and waste money that could be used for more important purposes. These household jobs assist one in remaining fit and strong. The exercise contributes to one's vigour and life span.

“Illness is the inevitable result of idleness and pandering; health is the inevitable consequence of a tough hard life. If everyone decides to carry on all personal services themselves, rather than depend on servants and helpers, the health situation will definitely improve and hospitals will have much less work. Keeping the mind fixed on God and good ideas and things also helps health.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Sathya Sai Speaks 7, p. I09

God did not create our bodies for us to strut about in pride. We are not peacocks with fabulous tails or macaws with brilliant plumage. Nor was the body designed simply for eating and sleeping all hours of the day. Our lives are sanctified by work for the benefit of others. Self discipline and social service enable us to remain strong and to earn the grace of God. Service to others keeps us fresh and energetic. A disciplined approach to life grants us both spiritual and material victories.

“The body has to be exercised to keep it trim as a tool for serving your fellowmen. The body has not been granted by God in order to be fed and well-clothed and to be paraded around in pride. Plunge into the problems of society, take up the burden of the family, and advance the interests of your country. Shine as examples of loving service.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Sathya Sai Speaks 11, p.115

An automobile which serves its owner well deserves proper maintenance. It carries out its duties without complaint, so long as it receives proper fuel and lubrication and general maintenance. The body also operates with optimal performance when it ingests healthy natural foods. We defy good sense if we cater to the palate, seeking appealing tastes rather than proper nutrition. We act against our own best interests when we neglect the needs of our own vehicle. Food preparation constitutes a major aspect of healthy living. Natural foods and minimal cooking provide us with the vitality to accomplish our tasks.

“What are the main causes of ill health? Millions of living beings grouped as species dwell on the earth; they sustain themselves by means of food secured from nature, as provided by nature. It is only man that is the exception. In order to cater to his palate and other senses, he changes the composition and characteristics of the things provided by nature and prepares, through the process of boiling, frying and mixing, concoctions which have no vitality in them. Birds and beasts do not adopt such destructive methods. They eat things raw and consume the strength-giving vital essence. So, they do not fall victim to the many ills that man brings on himself. Plant a boiled pulse in the soil; it won't sprout. How, then, can it contribute life to the living?”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Sathya Sai Speaks 11, pp.148-149

In fact, food constitutes more than just the substances that we ingest through our mouths. All that we imbibe through our eyes, ears, nose, and touch also comprises our "food." Violent movies, crude reading material, and loud music detract from our physical and mental wellbeing. For instance, brutality in films creates callous and cynical behaviour. Some unstable individuals even attempt to mimic such scenes in real life. Even when these violent acts are not imitated, they desensitize us to the harmful effects of such reprehensible behaviour. The sights and sounds that influence our ideals and aspirations subtly bias our physical health and mental attitudes.

“All that you eat, all that you see, all that you hear, all that you take in through the senses, make a dent on your health.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Sathya Sai Speaks 2, p.71 (October 10, 1061)

Each of us owes a debt to God for the gift of a human body. The opportunity to live as a human being is a rare chance to attain self realization. Of all the myriad beings in the universe, Sathya Sai Baba says that only the human being can aspire to self-realization. If one forfeits the opportunity, the loss looms immeasurable. The indweller who abuses the body and wastes its capabilities, squanders the chance to benefit and dishonours the real owner of the vehicle, God. If one recognizes the advent of the avatar, Sri Sathya Sai Baba, and fails to win His Grace, the tragedy is magnified. For the current era holds unparalleled possibilities for those who diligently apply themselves to spiritual advancement.

“The body is a house taken on rent by man. We know how the owner of the house persecutes the tenant in order to compel him to vacate it when the rent is not paid, or when the payment is delayed, or when the tenant does not maintain the house with care, or when he damages it through negligence or sheer wantonness. Therefore, it is our duty to keep the body in good shape and avoid the wrath of the owner. The owner will certainly appreciate a considerate, courteous, and cooperative tenant. The tenant can win the owner's love and respect by means of his own goodness.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Sathya Sai Speaks 10, pp.351-352

When we utilize our lives for good works, we win the grace of God. That grace may manifest as higher awareness or even physical cures of illness. Sathya Sai Baba miraculously saves many deserving devotees of terminal conditions and chronic infirmities. When such devotees plunge into service activities they become eligible recipients for divine aid.

Sathya Sai Baba has taken on himself the illnesses of staunch supporters. One such gentleman was spared from a heart attack and massive stroke, when Baba assumed his illness while on a trip to Goa. Sathya Sai Baba has even restored life to worthy devotees. Such was the case for Walter Cowan, an older American, who expired while visiting Baba in Madras. Sai Baba returned him to life in recognition of his devotion and service.

Those who help others may also receive added time to their allotted span so that they may continue with service activities. Dr. John Hislop received a new lease on life when he suffered from a severe bladder blockage while in India in 1978. Other instances could be named. We should realize that our health can be influenced by our devotion and sincere efforts to serve others.

“Minister Savant said that faith in Sai Baba is keeping him fit, in mind and body, all these years. He was the chairman of Shirdi Samasthan for many years. His devotion and attachment to that deha (body) and this deha, are known only to him and me. So, when he says that Baba has been keeping him healthy and strong, I know that it is true and that his faith is deep and sincere. If you have sincere devotion you will fix the responsibility for your health on him and he will also accept that responsibility. You, mind will be so full of happiness that your body will be a fit instrument for sadhana (spiritual discipline).”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Sathya Sai Speaks 4, p.98

6. More Than Just the Body

We sleep unaware of our royal estate. Like a prince or princess switched at birth, we believe ourselves to be mere common folk. Raised from birth by those who believe themselves to be the body, we also succumb to the illusion of mortality. Only one who knows the story of our origin can awaken us to our divine heritage. And so, Sathya Sai Baba reveals to us our true identity. We are not the one we believe ourselves to be, the body. Nor are we the one others believe us to be, the personality. In truth, we are the spark of God which has found a temporary resting place in this human frame.

Through spiritual disciplines we may discover our divine identity. When we serve others and reduce our ego and desires, we can gain that vision. Through hard work and God's grace we learn that we are greater than the body. That realization dawns when our own needs recede in importance and we place the requirements of others first. If we do not cater to our own harmful desires, the body accepts its role as a vehicle for higher purpose. When the role of the body is understood, our small aches and pains cease to be magnified by our fears and ignorance.

“Man is the victim of many a pain; to those who identify themselves with the body, life is a series of troubles and miseries. But to those who know that the body is but a vehicle, these cannot cause anxiety.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Sathya Sai Speaks 4, p. 195

When we exert our best efforts and we still suffer, then prayer may help to restore our inner balance. Searching within, we often discover solace or lessons in fortitude. Our pain helps us to grasp the importance of compassion and patience. When we experience sickness we learn to sympathize with those who despair. Or, if some past action of ours has caused our malady, prayer helps us to discover and overcome the woe. Through prayer, we may even unlock the door of God's mercy to receive an immediate cure for our pain.

“Regular prayers twice a day will give strength and courage, which can withstand illness.”

Sathya Sai Speaks 7, p.107

Our body transports us on the road to liberation. It enables us to assimilate the lessons of service and dedicated action for realization of the atma. Only with a healthy body can we discover the divinity within ourselves. The body allows us to win God's grace through dedicated action. But if bodily pleasure becomes the object of living, then our desires transform it into a monster, which blocks our path. If we fail to use our lives for realization of our inner divinity, then our time on earth is wasted.

“Forgetting the need for faith in the atma (inner divinity), for the bliss derived from the atma, for the worship of the atma, for dedication to the atma, people are now immersed in faith in the body, decoration of the body and dedication to the body. In spite of everything, the body is evanescent; but through the temple, the Lord can be seen. Through the body, the Lord who is within can be realized. That is the main task of man; conscious of this, try always to keep watch over the body and protect it. Do not neglect the Lord within; do not hold fast to the unreal, temporary outer building.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Prasanthi Vahini, p.35

When we adhere to Sai's prescription of holding to God and seeking to realize our true nature, we naturally promote our own good health. Faith in God banishes the dark specters of fear and anger, which spoil mental and physical fitness. Belief in God and in our own divinity grants strength and joy, which lifts us to a higher level of health. When our thoughts, words, and deeds promote love and harmony, the grace of God flows through us. That love of God sets all things right in our lives.

“The chief causes of ill health and death are fear and loss of faith. If one concentrates on the atma, which has no change or characteristics, no subtraction or senility, no decline or damage, man can conquer death. Therefore, the most effective prescription is the injection of knowledge of the atma, the soul as one's real self.”

– Sri Sathya Sai Baba   Sathya Sai Speaks 6, p.279