Jara, Mrityu, and Vyadhi (old age, death, and disease) are three great problems inherent to human existence. The scriptures speak of spirituality as the remedy for these. They prescribe living in a Guru’s presence as the sole way out of the misery of life, which is full of limitations. These limitations are due to one’s identification with the body-mind complex, rather than with the Atman.

Living with Satguru Amma is such a great fortune for all who have the Grace to do so. It is also auspicious to meet with death (Mrityu) in Her presence. The great poet Sri Ottur Unni Namboodirapad’s memorable passing in Amritapuri (recorded in one of the Awaken Children volumes) is a highly inspiring account of such divine grace.

There are about 3000 residents here in Amritapuri of all age groups and nationalities. Living in the Ashram impacts all areas of our lives. We are taught to imbibe a point of view towards Jara, Mrityu and Vyadhi in a totally fresh, meaningful and benevolent way – thanks to Amma and Amma only. When one of us dies, we have the whole Ashram with us to bid ‘bon voyage’ to our loved ones. Amma constantly reminds us that death is not an end in itself, but a pause before the continued journey.

Amma sings bhajans like Manobuddhya, (which declares that all is Siva and nothing else) and tells us often in satsangs about the transience of our worldly existence and the permanence of the Atman. So when one of us departs, we do not beat our chests or cry to the skies on the day of the funeral as if it’s impossible to return to our normal routines or live without them.

This evening Amma came out for the funeral of one of the ashram residents.
Amma attended to the funeral ritual Herself, which was held late in the evening. Surrounding the body, we chanted Amma’s Ashottara (108 names) followed by the 8th Chapter of the Gita, which talks about the after-life. She blessed the body by kissing it softly. We then went to the seaside where the body was placed on a pyre, which burned in the midst of solemn and genuine prayers that the departed attains peace and freedom.

Death is a reality, and we learn to take it as such. All of us here, old and young have learned there is no needless mystery or terror surrounding it. Thanks to Amma.

sandhya
13 Aug 07