Jewel in the Lotus: Deeper Aspects of Hinduism

by Sri M.

What is Hinduism? What forms its essence and what are its teachings? How does one best practise its various cultural externals?With its vast, ancient literature and deep metaphysics, at the core of which lie the Vedanta Sutras of Vyasa, the Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads known together as prasthana traya, Hinduism strives to explore truth and the true nature of reality. Yet the questions remain; how does one practise Hinduism today under the neon glare of modernity? And is there any contradiction in the practice of Hinduism and our roles in modern life?Like the lotus that grows in water whose leaves and petals remain dry, the yogi derives nourishment from the material world but remains undefiled and untouched by its seductions. In this way, one who wishes to lead a spiritual life can simultaneously perform the role of a responsible member of modern society; neither necessarily compromises the other. With care, practice and knowledge one can reap the benefits of both worlds - to be spiritual you do not have to run away from the world. This book examines the philosophy, spiritual teachings, metaphysics and cultural practices of Hinduism- known collectively as the Sanatana Dharma - and attempts to give one a grasp of its true essence.ForewordHinduism is a many-splendoured and multi-faceted edifice, containing and reflecting an endless array of possibilities for spiritual growth and integration. Based essentially upon the sublime teachings of the Upanishads, the secret of Hinduism’s continued vitality down through the long and tortuous corridors of time, despite repeated invasions and repression, lies in its capacity for creative reinterpretation. Indeed, the whole history of Hinduism can be viewed as a series of challenges and creative responses, a process which continues down to the present day. In the emerging global society it is my conviction that the universal principles of Hinduism are becoming increasingly relevant as we hurtle headlong into the third millennium A.D. astride the irreversible arrow of time.Theoretical formulations apart, Hinduism involves treading a spiritual path, and there are many. It is these individual pathways involving a creative interaction between the Guru and the disciple that provide the circulatory life-blood of Hinduism, making it a powerful vehicle for inner growth and spiritual realisation. In this context, the experience of individuals who have trodden the path is of great value. The present book Jewel in the Lotus revolves around the life experience and teachings of Mumtaz Ali, better known as ‘M’. Some may find it surprising that a person born a Muslim should have such a deep insight into and experience with the Hindu tradition, but the real spiritual path knows no boundary of race or religion, sex or creed, language or nationality. And the mystics of all the world’s great religions – the Rishis, the Siddhas, the Tirthankaras, the Bodhisattvas, the Sufis, the Gurus and the saints have all illuminated one or other facets of the immeasurable resplendence of the Divine.I have had occasion to know ‘M’ over the last few years, and we have spoken together on several occasions including a three-day workshop on the Kena Upanishad over which I presided. He combines an excellent grasp of theUpanishadic teachings with deep insight into the heart of the spiritual tradition, based on his own remarkable experiences. This book in which he has dealt with some of the deeper aspects of Hinduism will, I am sure, be of great interest to students of contemporary religion, as well as seekers of truth around the world.— Dr. Karan Singh

Genres: Spirituality, Hinduism, Philosophy

160 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2011

About the author

Sri M (born Mumtaz Ali Khan), who was born a Muslim, was attracted to Vedic teachings at an early age. He met his Guru at the age of 9 and left home at 19 to live in the Himalayas, where he met many saints and sages before living with his Guru for three years. M has been associated with the famous Rishi Valley School as a former trustee of the Krishnamurti Foundation. Rather than choosing any specific religion or tradition, M teaches the universal essence of all religions.

M is founder of the Satsang Foundation. When asked about the Foundation and its purposes, he responded, “Satsang, which in Sanskrit, translates to holy company. Satsang is important because it is in keeping holy company that we overcome all circumstances and distractions, attain our true purpose of life, and uplift the world. By keeping holy company, not only with saints and sages and with other sincere spiritual seekers, but most importantly and with our True Self, our own Soul, we achieve deeper access and ultimate union with the Divine Essence. That is the goal of all prayer, meditation and spiritual practice, as well as all religions.”

He is a spiritual teacher and Guru to many and he teaches Kriya Yoga, the Upanishads and Sri Vidya Upasana. He lives in Madnapalle, Andhra Pradesh (near Bangalore) and travels around India and the World teaching and taking students on regular Yatras to sacred places.

Reviews

[Venkatesan Natarajan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful book for spiritual aspirants and gives us a glimpse of what Hinduism is all about - the crux that it is just a path and not a religion by itself.
I strongly recommend for all sincere spiritual seekers.

[Giri Velagapudi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book

easy to read and understand. I enjoyed reading it and things were written in a way for easy understanding. also very motivating.

[Priyanka Vishwakarma · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really nice book. Author explain various aspects of hinduism in simple and easy words. He explained various mantra of upanishad, vedantic teachings, actual path of spiritual journey, various misconception that a person has regarding spiritual teachings. A nice read for spiritual seekers.

[Craig Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read !!

This book is a MUST read for serious spiritual aspirants. He explains everything so well and makes it easy for everyone to understand. Looking forward to reading another one of his books !!

[Jyoti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book for spiritual seekers

[Aniruddh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a very good starting point for beginners in the spiritual seeking process. It lays down the rules to be followed what we can expect from the path and also upanishadic and vedantic explanation of various concepts relating to the supreme conciseness. The book is divided the first part talks about the author and his credentials, the second part has a q and a format with good scientific backing and arguments out keeps you encapsulated, the next talks about the course of Hinduism. Overall a good book for beginners.

[Kaushik Mitra · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the finest books I have read on serious spirituality. Has some beautiful words on what faith is ... glad to have come across this gem of a book.