Datta Maata 132: Benefits of pilgrimage

We go to big pilgrim centers with many desires especially during the festive season. However, we are confused with the many events that happen there like the Vedic chants, auspicious music, bhajans, musical renderings and so on. In an apparently confusing manner, these centers do not make way for the concentration of the mind. In addition to this, it is also very difficult to catch a pleasant glimpse of God. It is impossible to go on with meditation either. Hence, it is better to do meditation in solitude. We doubt whether we can really serve the Lord when we are amidst hundreds of people. Those who think so have not understood the essence of God's worship.

Worshiping God is different from his contemplation. In meditation, thinking about the greatness of the deity is an important aspect whereas in worship, offering oneself is important. Acknowleding and keeping in mind that what we have and what we need are all under the control of God is the real offering. There is nothing that God expects from us and in fact, we cannot really give him anything. We must remember that every object that exists belongs to him. The more you remember this the more you acquire. Because of following this technique, those who offer to God get more and more wealthier day by day. Looking this on the other angle - Whatever you want, offer it to God. However, man is a social being and hence his basic desires are linked with others around. In order to fulfill all his desires, he must offer his worships and prayers along with others. Hence, mass worships are arranged in temples and pilgrim centers.

The kings of ancient times also participated in such mass events along with the common people. Instead, they never considered such events to be nuisance. Another important aspect of pilgrimage is - Not only one gets the darshan of God but also one gets to have a glimpse of devotees. One gets the opportunity of noble friendship (Satsanga) and gets to practice forbearance. Also, each and every pilgrim center is specifically rich with positive vibrations. That is why, even the slightest prayers, worship and contemplation that are done here get enhanced by several times because of the power of the place. Taking holy dip in the powerful theertha (holy bathing) and having Lord's darshan washes away all the sins and brings purity of mind. We must also observe another greatness in pilgrimages. Even if one is extremely rich, it is highly impossible for him/her to offer all the worships and prayers alone. If it is done, the fruits thereof will go to only one person. Whereas if one participates in the mass prayers, the fruits are obtained by each and every one. This is the special power of mass prayers. This is the secret behind the festivities that happen in sacred places and pilgrim centers. Hence, one must go on pilgrimages as much as possible. It helps for to get both spiritual experience and for the worldly development. Secondly, during pilgrimages, we develop tolerance and come out of our comfort zones. We try to adjust and improve our immunity system. Many complain that they get affected by infections during pilgrimages but gradually they develop resistance for diseases. These are the benefits and happiness that one gets during pilgrimages.

Jaya Guru Datta! Sri Guru Datta!