Shri Vasudevanand Saraswati Tembe Swami Maharaj

A compact Biography.

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• Karma Yoga
  

  Literally translated as the path of action, this means aligning one’s life to the dictates of the Scriptures so that no new Karma (Kriyman) is generated; the Karma of the present life (Prarabdh) has to be suffered unstintingly without protest or resistance; and the accumulated balance is to be dissipated through selfless service to God manifest in the world as all living beings. The actions are classified as those ordained by Scriptures, those forbidden (Nishiddh) and those that are motivated by desires though permitted. The last two categories have to be eschewed. This is followed by gradual purification of mind that then becomes capable of realizing Self. Karma Yoga is thus not a direct means of Liberation but is an essential prerequisite for it. Obviously, a thorough knowledge of Scriptures and strict discipline are the mainstays of Karma yoga.  A populist interpretation of Karma Yoga tends to validate all secular activity as Liberating, without closely examining the motivation. Thus for example doctors, lawyers and other professionals, even politicians claim to be Karma Yogis, when in fact, however perfect and dedicated their actions, these are motivated by Artha (money, wealth), Kaam (desires, sex etc.) and Lokaishana (urge to gain public adulation).

  Shri Swami Maharaj expected his followers to strictly follow the religious disciplines prescribed by the scriptures in accordance with the Varna and Ashram of the individual. He considered the Vedas (Shrutis) and Smrutis to be the Divine commandments. He expected Brahmins to be particularly strict in this respect, being the highest in the Varna hierarchy. They needed to be exemplary in their religious conduct as the other Varnas would naturally look up to them and follow their lead. That is why he did not grant audience to a Brahmin sporting hair at the expense of Shikha. He insisted the Brahmins to perform the five-fold sacrifices (Panch Mahayadnyas). He accepted food offered by such a Brahmin only. He was instrumental in bringing back to religious path many Brahmin families gone astray. In fact, he brought about a great revival of Vedic religion in India.