By Mukund Dev Sahoo
We often believe that the light from a lamp can illuminate us, but this is merely an illusion. Our physical body, formed from the five elements (Pancha Bhuta), is driven by the subtle body (mind), which is in turn veiled by various thought patterns. Through this cycle, we engage in actions driven by a constant pursuit of happiness, wealth, and recognition. Among all humanity, only a fraction perhaps less than one percent are truly searching for liberation.
On this path of seeking, many look for miracles and often search for a crutch to lean on. The irony is that they seek this support in another human being, just like themselves, believing that person’s words to be absolute truth. They go so far as to worship these individuals, treating them as the key to their salvation.
Throughout history, countless great souls have walked this Earth. But how many of their followers truly became like them? Perhaps a small percentage, out of hundreds, were influenced by their wisdom and became their devoted disciples. No matter who the great soul is, there will always be those who criticize or oppose their teachings. Does this mean that following the path shown by these enlightened beings is a mistake?
Every human is endowed with unique intelligence and reasoning power, which allows them to chart their own path. Yes, we should certainly study and listen to the teachings of great masters, but the key is to analyze and discover our own way forward, using our intellect and critical thinking.
True liberation can only be achieved through our own earned merits, shaped by the karmas (actions) from our past. Our fate the circumstances we face today is determined by the virtues we accumulated in the past. This virtue paves the way to our liberation, and it is a path we must discover ourselves. Following a guru or master is not wrong, but unless we remain centered on our own path, liberation will remain elusive.
Let’s illustrate this with a simple example: Have you ever closely observed a lamp? When it burns, its flame casts light into the surrounding darkness a fact we are all aware of. The light becomes a focal point, attracting many towards it. The lamp burns with the help of oil, a wick, and a structure made of clay or brass, and it continues to emit light until its fuel is exhausted.
Similarly, many great souls have illuminated the paths of countless individuals with their wisdom. However, if we observe carefully, we’ll notice that along with the flame, there is always smoke. Wherever the smoke touches, it leaves a blackened trace. This means that, in addition to the light, the lamp also emits a shadow of darkness. The problem is that we have not trained our eyes to see this dark side.
Looking through the pages of history, we can find that even the lives of great masters had moments where a dark cloud appeared, a shadow rose. The lamp emits both light and shadow. Therefore, the wise approach is to light a lamp within yourself, one that produces no dark smoke. Light a lamp that brings warmth without burning, one that provides coolness and calm yet still radiates light.
Be that Lamp. Become that Light.
In conclusion, each of us should strive to be a lamp that burns steadily without causing harm, radiating light that is soothing yet bright. Instead of relying solely on external sources of light, we must cultivate the ability to shine from within, embodying both wisdom and compassion. Be the lamp that guides without leaving behind a trail of smoke – be the light you seek in the world.
Mukund Dev 