echoesofwisdom

This video is intended to echo the mystic poetry of the Sufi Master, Farid Ud-Din Attar. Farid Uddin Attar was a Persian poet and sufi master who has left an indelible mark on Persian Sufi literature. Born in Nishapur, in northeastern Iran, during the 12th century, his work reflects the philosophy that divine love is the objective of every seeker and the path to God goes beyond all forms of ritual and belief systems. Sufism, often described as the mystical dimension of Islam, emphasizes the inner, spiritual search for God. Sufis strive for a personal, intimate connection with the divine, often expressed through love, poetry, and devotion. It is a path that seeks to find the divine presence within, to experience God beyond the limitations of form and doctrine. In "The Conference of the Birds," Attar conveys the Sufi idea that the divine permeates and transcends all creation. The verses in the video encapsulate the belief that while the source of creation is indescribable, every atom in the universe from the depths of the earth to the heights of the heavens is a witness to God’s existence. In Sufism, God is both immanent and transcendent, intimately involved with the world yet beyond the reach of human understanding or language. Attar's poetry bridges the expanse between doctrinal differences, suggesting that all religions are rivers leading to the same boundless ocean. The video's quotes illustrate the idea that there is one creator, one integral source, from which we all emerge and to which we all return. This concept is beautifully reflected in the quote: “God is all, and things have only a nominal value - the visible world, and the world invisible are only Himself.” Attar emphasizes that in our search for knowledge of the divine, we often overlook the immediate presence of God within and around us. The video features his words that implore us to recognize the essence that is closer than our own heartbeat, urging us to say: “O You who are not seen, although you make us know of You, everyone is You, yet none other than You is manifested.” The selected quotes also touch upon the idea that while humanity grasps at the literal meanings of religious teachings, the essence often remains concealed. Attar challenges us to go beyond the surface, to find that "the soul is hidden in the body, and You are hidden in the soul," inviting viewers to explore the depths where the divine dances hidden in plain sight. Peace and blessings be to all of those who read this, I send my warmest regards, and I pray for The Journey to Understanding Our video, guided by Attar’s poetic verses, is not just a recitation of his work but an invocation to set forth on a quest for truth. He urges us to "walk carefully" and to understand that knowing God comes not through human wisdom but through divine revelation. "To know oneself one must live a hundred lives. But you must know God by Himself, and not by you." Conclusion: A Call to Spiritual Awakening As Attar's words resonate in "The Same God is Spoken of in All the Major Religion's Scriptures," let them awaken a longing in your heart for the journey beyond names and forms, to the realization of the One who is beyond description. Let this video be a companion on your quest as we join together in the pursuit of the ultimate treasure — the truth of our existence and the unity of the divine. Step into the stream of spiritual awakening with "The Same God is Spoken of in All the Major Religion's Scriptures | Bahai Quotes from Baháʼu'lláh," and let the wisdom of Farid Uddin Attar guide you to the ocean of divine unity.

In the name of the One, peace and blessings be with you. This video is intended to shine a light on the profound teachings of one of Buddhism's greatest masters, the father of Zen Buddhism (also known as Chan Buddhism), Bodhidharma. Who Was Bodhidharma? Bodhidharma was a 5th-century Buddhist monk, traditionally credited as the transmitter of Chan Buddhism to China, and regarded as its first Chinese patriarch. Originally hailing from India or Central Asia, he journeyed to the East with the intent to impart the essential teachings of the Buddha. His significance lies in his role as a spiritual revitalizer; his teachings stripped away the excesses of practice, focusing squarely on the cultivation of the mind and realization of one's true nature. Why Did Bodhidharma Come to China? The journey of Bodhidharma to China around the year 475 CE was motivated by a mission to refresh the understanding of the Dharma. He saw a need to return to the fundamental teachings of the Buddha, focusing on meditation and the direct experience of enlightenment. His approach was characterized by an emphasis on 'self-realization without a teacher' — pointing directly to the heart, bypassing the scholastic study and ritualistic worship prevalent at the time. Bodhidharma's Teachings: The Heart of Zen Bodhidharma's core message, much like the prophets and sages before him, was to look beyond religious dogma and directly experience the divine reality within. His teachings, encapsulated in the quotes featured in this video, draw our attention inward, to the awareness of the heart that connects us all. He taught that this intrinsic nature is beyond the dualities and the myriad doctrines that humans create. In the Heart, All Paths Converge Through the selected quotes, Bodhidharma emphasizes that true liberation is found not in external practices or the scholarly study of texts, but in seeing one's true nature. "To find a Buddha, you have to see your nature. Whoever sees his nature is a Buddha." This pivotal statement encapsulates the essence of Zen — enlightenment is not somewhere out there; it's within the heart. The Futility of Attachment to Doctrines The great teacher asserts that clinging to scriptures and doctrines can cloud awareness. "Sophistication and knowledge are not only useless but also cloud your awareness. Doctrines are only for pointing to the heart. Once you see your heart, why pay attention to doctrines?" In these words, Bodhidharma echoes the sentiment that true wisdom lies in direct experience. The Presence of Buddha in Awareness "Your heart is the Buddha," Bodhidharma tells us, urging seekers to realize that the sacred and the divine are immanent in our very being. The ultimate teaching he imparts is that of looking within, for "Beyond this heart there is no Buddha anywhere." Understanding Beyond Words Bodhidharma points to an understanding beyond the grasp of language, where the ultimate truth cannot be encapsulated by doctrines: "The ultimate Truth is beyond words. Doctrines are words. They're not the Way. The Way is wordless. Words are illusions." A Guide to Realization Our video, "All Doctrines Point Us to This Heart," not only shares these timeless quotes but also serves as a guide, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of self-discovery. It encourages a meditative exploration, as Bodhidharma's wisdom is as relevant now as it was centuries ago. Conclusion: The Heart of Zen Today As you watch "All Doctrines Point Us to This Heart," let Bodhidharma's words resonate within you, stirring the silent awareness that is the unifying thread between all doctrines and religions. May this journey through the quotes of Bodhidharma inspire a deeper, heart-centered understanding of spirituality, one that transcends the confines of individual paths and brings to light the shared essence of our existence. #zen #buddha #buddhism #chan #mysticism #esoteric #enlightenment #bodhidharma

Baháʼu'lláh, born Mirza Husayn-`Ali Nuri in 1817 in Tehran, Iran, is the founder of the Bahá'í Faith, a world religion that emerged in the 19th century from the Bábí movement. His title, Baháʼu'lláh, translates to "The Glory of God," a name he adopted after declaring his divine mission in 1863. As the prophet-founder of the Bahá'í Faith, he is regarded by Bahá'ís as the most recent in a line of messengers of God that includes Abraham, Moses, Buddha, Jesus, Muhammad, and the Báb, the herald of the Bahá'í Faith. The Bahá'í Faith: A Message of Oneness The Bahá'í Faith espouses the oneness of humanity, the essential unity of all religions, and the belief in one unknowable, transcendent God who periodically reveals His will through divine messengers. Baháʼu'lláh's central tenet was that all major religions of the world are divine in origin, each of them constituting chapters of one religion from God, suitable for the needs and capacities of the time and place in which they were revealed. The Pure Word of the Scriptures Baháʼu'lláh emphasized that the pure word of the scriptures is the ultimate source of spiritual truth. However, he cautioned that humans often fail to turn to these holy texts for guidance, relying instead on interpretations and traditions established by fallible humans. This deviation from the original messages of the prophets has led to divisiveness and conflict. Beyond Division to Unity The video highlights how mainstream religious agendas have, over time, promoted divisiveness through rigid adherence to man-made traditions and dogmas. Baháʼu'lláh urged humanity to return to the core teachings of the scriptures, which advocate the oneness of God and the unity of mankind. "The Same God is Spoken of in All the Major Religion's Scriptures" implores viewers to recognize that every religion teaches the same fundamental principles of love, unity, and devotion to the One God. The Hidden Truth in Scripture By delving into the scriptures and contemplating their essence, Baháʼu'lláh proposed that we could uncover the hidden truth: the singular inspiration granted by God to all His prophets. The religions that sprang from these divine messages share common teachings that transcend the superficial differences established by subsequent interpretations and cultural practices. Turning to the Source for Spiritual Enlightenment The video invites viewers to turn to the source — the Word of God found in the scriptures — for true spiritual enlightenment. By meditating on the sacred texts, we discover the underlying truth that there is only one God, the Creator, the Sustainer, the Beginning and the End. From Him we originate, and unto Him is our ultimate return. Conclusion: Embracing the Unity of Religion Join us in this profound reflection on the words of Baháʼu'lláh, which cut through the layers of separation to reveal the heart of all religious truth. "The Same God is Spoken of in All the Major Religion's Scriptures" is not just a statement of faith but a call to action — to embrace the common essence of all faiths and to work towards a unified world that reflects the divine purpose of harmony and oneness. #bahaullah #bahaifaith #bahai #god #interfaith

This video offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual teachings of Zarathustra, also known as Zoroaster, the renowned prophet of one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions, Zoroastrianism. Who Was Zarathustra? Zarathustra Spitama, known to the Greeks as Zoroaster, is a figure shrouded in the mists of ancient history. Believed to have lived between 1500 and 1000 BCE in the region that is now Iran, he was a spiritual leader and sage whose teachings challenged the existing beliefs of his time. He is credited with the authorship of the Gathas, the sacred hymns at the core of the Zoroastrian faith. The Timeless Teachings of the Gathas The Gathas are a collection of seventeen hymns that convey the core tenets of Zoroastrianism. Composed by Zarathustra, these verses encapsulate his revelations and expositions on the nature of existence, the cosmic struggle between good and evil, and the path toward righteousness and truth. The quotes in our video, drawn directly from these sacred texts, offer insights into the essence of good thoughts, words, and deeds — the triad that forms the foundation of Zoroastrian ethics. The Path of Righteousness in Zoroastrianism Zoroastrianism posits a monotheistic worldview centered around the worship of Ahura Mazda, the Lord of Wisdom. Zarathustra's teachings highlight the continuous battle between Asha (truth, righteousness) and Druj (deceit, falsehood), urging individuals to align with the forces of light through conscious moral choices. The religion preaches that humans play a crucial role in the cosmic order, with the potential to contribute to the eventual triumph of good over evil. Embodying Good Thought, Words, and Deeds This video sheds light on Zarathustra's call for personal accountability and the significance of purity in thought, speech, and action. The Gathas speak to the transformative power of aligning oneself with Good Thought, as it leads to righteous Words and noble Deeds. The prophet’s words, still relevant today, encourage us to embody these principles in our daily lives. "I Shall Sing You Songs No One Has Sung Before" Zarathustra's commitment to sharing the wisdom revealed to him by Ahura Mazda is encapsulated in the quote, "I shall sing you songs no one has sung before." His voice, echoing across the ages, invites us to partake in a spiritual odyssey that transcends conventional understanding and guides us toward a higher purpose. The Seeker's Ascent to Serenity The chosen excerpts from the Gathas reveal a pathway to serenity through self-dominance, an internal mastery that leads to the divine realm of Mazda Ahura. The seeker, empowered by Good Thought and steadfast in Righteousness, is promised a place in the immortal abode, reflecting the ultimate goal of unity with the divine. Embracing the Divine Doctrine In the embrace of the doctrine established by Ahura Mazda, one finds true beneficence and spiritual elevation. Zarathustra's decision to join with Good Thought signifies a break from wrongdoers and a commitment to the path of light. The video highlights this dichotomy, illustrating the stark contrast between the righteous and those led astray by deceit. The Luminous Gift of Wisdom The video emphasizes that wisdom and enlightenment are born from Good Thought. As Zarathustra recognized Ahura Mazda as the creator and sustainer of existence, he urged followers to engage in contemplation and attunement to divine guidance. The Gathas express this revelation as a personal and universal truth that can lead humanity to the ultimate joy of both the physical and the spiritual realms. Overcoming Deception with Radiance The radiant side of existence, according to Zarathustra, triumphs over deception. The Gathas encourage overcoming the deceivers' guile by clinging to the tenets of Good Thought and Righteousness. The video brings to life these powerful concepts, demonstrating how one can navigate life's challenges with integrity and spiritual clarity. The Doctrine of Ahura Mazda's Light Zarathustra's vision of the world illuminated by the light of Ahura Mazda carries with it the promise of wisdom's dawn. It is this light that dispels the shadows of deceit and guides the faithful towards an existence marked by divine favor and spiritual prosperity. #Gathas #zarathustra #zoroaster #zoroastrianism #zoroastrian #mysticism

Journey through the spiritual landscape painted by the words of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the revered founder of Sikhism, in this insightful video "All Spiritual Paths Lead to the One | Sikh Meditations from Nanak Dev Ji in the Guru Granth Sahib." This video offers a profound exploration of the universal messages and meditative teachings that Guru Nanak imparted to the world through his verses in the Guru Granth Sahib. The Dawn of Sikhism and Guru Nanak's Vision Sikhism was born in the 15th century in the region of Punjab, now part of modern-day India and Pakistan, at a time when the society was deeply entrenched in religious and social strife. The founder of this distinct and visionary faith, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, was born in 1469 in Nankana Sahib. From a young age, Guru Nanak was marked by his deep spirituality and commitment to God. Rejecting the ritualistic and formal practices prevalent in both Hinduism and Islam of his time, he paved a new path founded on the principles of equality, justice, and devotion to one God. The Guru Granth Sahib: An Eternal Guide The Guru Granth Sahib, the central religious scripture of Sikhism, sanctified as the eternal Guru by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, is a compilation of divine hymns and poetry that encapsulate the essence of Sikh philosophy. It includes contributions from six Sikh Gurus as well as Hindu and Muslim saints, making it a truly interfaith scripture. The Guru Granth Sahib emphasizes the universality of God and the unity of all humanity, and it remains an eternal spiritual guide for Sikhs around the world. The Oneness of God and Shared Humanity Guru Nanak's message in the Guru Granth Sahib is clear: there is one supreme being, the source of all creation, from which all divine inspiration springs. It is through the realization and meditation on this supreme being, beyond all names and forms, that one can achieve spiritual liberation. Guru Nanak championed a faith that not only bridged the divide between Muslims and Hindus but also brought forth a message of universal brotherhood and the oneness of God. The Harmony of Diverse Paths The video "All Spiritual Paths Lead to the One" weaves together poignant quotes from Guru Nanak Dev Ji that express the core belief of Sikhism — the unity of all spiritual paths leading to the One. This principle is beautifully encapsulated in the quotes: "The Hindu worships at the temple, the Muslim at the mosque. I serve that Lord, who is not limited to either the temple or the mosque." "The Muslim God Allah and the Hindu God Paarbrahm are one and the same." The Divine Tapestry of Religions Guru Nanak acknowledges the diverse ways in which the Divine is celebrated around the world, stating: "By His power the Vedas and the Puranas exist, and the Holy scriptures of the Jewish, Christian, and Islamic religions. By His power, all deliberations exist." The Universality of God’s Service The verses of Guru Nanak offer a transcendent perspective that honors the various names and practices through which God is worshipped, always emphasizing the unity beneath the surface: "Some call Him, ‘Raam, Raam’, and some call Him, ‘Khudai’. He is the Cause of causes, the Generous Lord." The Realization of God’s Will One of the central themes in the Guru Granth Sahib, as presented by Guru Nanak, is the importance of recognizing and aligning oneself with the Hukam, or the divine order. It is through this recognition that one understands the interconnectedness of all paths: "One who recognizes that all Spiritual Paths lead to the One shall be emancipated." Meditations on the One Lord Through contemplation and remembrance of the One, Guru Nanak prescribes a path to spiritual wisdom and inner peace: "The Lord and Master is pervading everywhere. The Lord is always with us; he is never far away." Conclusion: The Essence of Guru Nanak's Teachings This video, "All Spiritual Paths Lead to the One," offers viewers an opportunity to engage with the universal and meditative wisdom of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Through his words, we are reminded of the singular truth that stands at the heart of all religions — the existence of One Divine Reality. It is an invitation to meditate on this supreme being, to recognize the light within each of us, and to celebrate the unity that Guru Nanak so lovingly espoused. As we absorb the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji through the selected quotes, let us reflect on the shared humanity and common spiritual aspirations that bind us all. Let us remember the words of Guru Nanak that resonate with timeless truth, guiding us towards a life of compassion, understanding, and devotion to the One. #sikh #kirtan #guru #guruji #waheguru #interfaith #mysticism #nanak #waheguru #waheguruji

This video is intended to share the profound wisdom of Jalaluddin Rumi, the revered 13th-century Sufi poet and mystic, particularly qith quotes regarding the transformative practice of fasting. This exploration delves into Rumi's poetic insights, revealing that within the act of fasting lies a secret so profound, it connects us to the divine essence that pervades all existence. **Who is Rumi?** Jalaluddin Rumi, born in 1207 in present-day Afghanistan and settled in Konya, Turkey, stands among the most beloved and widely read poets globally. His work transcends religious, cultural, and national boundaries, echoing the deepest yearnings of the human heart. Rumi's legacy is a testament to the power of the mystical path and the search for inner truth. **The Paradox of Fasting** The video "You are the Secret" presents a series of Rumi's reflections on fasting, a practice that, while seemingly counterintuitive, holds profound spiritual benefits. Rumi suggests that the pangs of hunger nourish the spirit, revealing a state of fullness far beyond physical satiation. The video elegantly portrays how fasting serves as a means to cleanse the body and the spiritual canal, bringing us closer to the divine and heightening our inner awareness. **The Wisdom of Emptiness** Through selected quotes, Rumi elucidates the concept that true spiritual richness is often found in emptiness. When the body is hungry, our spirit finds its true sustenance, becoming full and vibrant. Rumi draws parallels to the Prophet Muhammad's teaching that a believer is akin to a lute, resonating with divine music when empty. Fasting, then, is not merely an abstention from food but an opening to the music of the cosmos. **The Ascetic's Delight** Rumi describes fasting as a way to elevate the soul beyond the mundane pleasures of the world. He invites us to envision a reality where simple, moldy bread becomes a delight to a fasting person, akin to a layered pastry. Through the lens of hunger, we rediscover gratitude and the subtle joys that excess often veils. **The Lions of God** Not everyone is called to the path of fasting, Rumi notes. It is a path for those who wish to become "God's lions," those who seek to rise above the ordinary and embrace a life of spiritual boldness. True hunger, a hunger that is a gift to God's chosen, is a rarity in a world where we are constantly invited to indulge. **The Spiritual Fast** Rumi poetically narrates that fasting is the soul's wine, an intoxication that draws us into an embrace with the divine. It is a paradoxical feast that, while denying the body, fills the spirit to the brim with the presence of the divine lover. Fasting becomes a dance of nearness, where each moment without physical food is a step closer to the eternal. **The Elixir of Purity** As we journey through the video, Rumi's verses paint fasting as a divine alchemy, transforming the lead of our baser instincts into spiritual gold. He describes the process of purifying the body's canal, clearing it of muddiness so that the reflection of our inward essence may shine forth unobstructed. **A Divine Reflection** The act of fasting, according to Rumi, is like preparing a mirror to reflect the divine. It is about emptying oneself of the debris of excess so that the heart becomes a clear vessel for God's light. This spiritual clarity is what allows us to perceive the divine breaths that are akin to those of the Messiah, illuminating our path and guiding us toward the heart's true desires. **The Music of the Soul** The practice of fasting, as illustrated by Rumi's quotes, attunes us to the rhythm of the divine. It allows the soul to play its music, unhindered by the fullness that silences its melody. In the video, we are invited to become empty, to be held gently between the fingers of the divine, and to savor the intoxication of "nowhere. Reference of Books used in the video: - Mathnawi of Rumi {book}:{page}, translation by Reynold A. Nicholson https://www.amazon.com/Mathnawi-Jalaluddin-Rumi-Vol-Translation/dp/0906094089/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_2?crid=2ACHP8IDJJTZK&keywords=Mathnawi+Elias&qid=1698679700&s=books&sprefix=mathnawi+elias%2Cstripbooks%2C148&sr=1-2-fkmr0 - Feeling the shoulder of the Lion https://www.amazon.com/Feeling-Shoulder-Lion-Teaching-Stories/dp/1570625220 - Divan of Rumi {book}:{page}, translation by Nevit O. Ergin https://www.amazon.com/Divan-i-Kebir-Mevlana-Jalaluddin-Rumi/dp/1947666037/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_1?crid=3K7T1R9ZJTYQ4&keywords=Divan-E+Kebir+Rumi&qid=1698679756&s=books&sprefix=divan-e+kebir+rumi%2Cstripbooks%2C88&sr=1-1-fkmr1 #rumi #sufism #mysticism #fasting #ramadan #eid #spirituality #islam