spiritual practice - basic principle 3

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3rd Basic Principle of spiritual practice

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Importance of these principles


The 3rd of six Basic Principles of spiritual practice

From Gross to Subtle


Meaning of ‘Gross’

‘Gross’ would have connotations of …• shallow, • superficial, • superfluous, • mechanical, • and limited in terms of both the understanding of the God principle as well as quantity and quality of our spiritual practice efforts


Gross and subtle two ends of the continuum

Most subtle or intangible

Grossest SubtlestGross to subtle continuum

Something that is very tangible or very physical

Unmanifest Supreme God Principle


Gross and subtle two ends of the continuum

Most subtle or intangible

Grossest SubtlestGross to subtle continuum

Something that is very tangible or very physical

Unmanifest Supreme God Principle

To merge into the Supreme God Principle which is the ultimate in spiritual evolution then our spiritual practice too has to become more and more subtle.


The real test for spiritual practice

Initially we identify with the 5 senses, mind and intellect

Finally we identify only with the Soul

Dissolution of the 5 senses, mind and intellect through

spiritual practice

Our true nature- The Soul

5 Senses

Mind

Intellect


Example – shaking hands

The old goat needs to retire, how long will I put up with him?

Hmm ..This upstart wants my job.


Example – praying

I think the Jack should be able to come down in price

Should I go to Europe or the Caribbean for a holiday?


Examples – External versus Internal

Gross or outward signs are not necessarily a reflection of one’s inner state


Spiritual inner state

In spiritual practice the inner state is most important and it is the driver behind sustained positive spiritual changes in us


Gross to subtle in prayer as spiritual practice

•Grossest level : Attending a prayer service at a place of worship but thoughts are somewhere else

• Formal prayers at pre-determined times such as at meal times or weekly religious services

• Saying the same formal prayers but with feeling

• Then saying one’s own heartfelt prayers

Gross

Subtle


Gross to subtle in chanting

Grosser level : Chanting with beadsand chanting aloud


Gross to subtle in chanting

Grosser level : Chanting with beadsand chanting aloud

Subtler level : Chanting with concentration at a non-verbal level


Gross to subtle in personality defect removal as spiritual practice

Action level Working on reducing rudeness and sarcasm Gross



Action level

Thought level

Working on reducing rudeness and sarcasm

Working on the incorrect thought, i.e. one’s superiority complex

Gross

Subtle



Action level

Thought level Working on the incorrect thought, i.e. one’s superiority complex

Gross

Subtle

Not only reduce rudeness and sarcasm but also all ones other actions become more humble


In summary

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If you are doing any form of spiritual practice please do reflect as to whether it embraces this third principle.

Are you going from gross to subtle?

spiritual practice - basic principle 3

Spiritual

gross gross

subtle continuum

internal gross

heartfelt prayers gross

form of spiritual practice

spiritual practice efforts

spiritual evolution

spiritual inner state