73. What form can be contemplated during periods of interregnum

DISCOURSES ON

RADHASOAMI FAITH

BY

MAHARAJ SAHAB

Pandit Brahm Sankar Misra, M.A.

73. WHAT FORM BE CONTEMPLATED DURING PERIODS OF INTERREGNUM

            111. We have already said that the contemplation of the form of a living true guide is the one prescribed in Radhasoami religion. From this, it may naturally be inferred that the practice of this method is suspended during those periods when a true spiritual guide is not present. Such is, however, not exactly the case. During the interregnum, so to say, the form of the last spiritual guide is contemplated, and the process is attended with spiritual concentration; but there is a difference in degree of concentration produced by such contemplation and that produced by the contemplation of the form of a living spiritual guide. The difference may not be inaptly described as being somewhat similar to the difference between the feelings aroused by looking at the likeness of a friend or relative who has departed, and those generated by their thoughts when they are alive. In the former case, sorrow at separation is the prevailing characteristic; in the latter case, living interest and mutual affection, felicity, and help are the predominant features.