Name: The Discovery of God IIC Prog (CPS Members talk) November 2, 2019 — Maulana Wahiduddin Khan
Uploaded: 2019-01-01
Duration: 38 min 52 s
Channel: Maulana Wahiduddin Khan
Description: Read the full transcript of “The Discovery of God IIC Prog (CPS Members talk) November 2, 2019”, a lecture by Maulana Wahiduddin Khan, with timestamps.

0:17 In the creation of the heavens and the earth, in the alternation of night and day, in the In the creation of the heavens and the earth, in the alternation of night and day, in the

0:23 ships that sail the ocean bearing cargoes beneficial to man, in the water which God sends down from ships that sail the ocean bearing cargoes beneficial to man, in the water which God sends down from

0:31 the sky and with which He revives the earth after its death, scattering over all kinds of animals, the sky and with which He revives the earth after its death, scattering over all kinds of animals,

0:40 in the course of the winds, in the clouds pressed into service between earth and sky, there are in the course of the winds, in the clouds pressed into service between earth and sky, there are

0:47 indeed signs for people who use their reason. indeed signs for people who use their reason.

0:53 On behalf of Centre for Peace and Spirituality International, I'd like to welcome all of you to join us on the topic of discovery of God. On behalf of Centre for Peace and Spirituality International, I'd like to welcome all of you to join us on the topic of discovery of God.

1:03 The subject of God, as all of you would agree, concerns one and all. In today's discussion, we hope to find answers to many of the spiritual questions that are harbored within our minds. The subject of God, as all of you would agree, concerns one and all. In today's discussion, we hope to find answers to many of the spiritual questions that are harbored within our minds.

1:16 With that, I'd like to invite our first speaker for today afternoon, which is Ms. Mariya Kh With that, I'd like to invite our first speaker for today afternoon, which is Ms. Mariya Kh

1:23 an. Ms. Mariya Khan is an Islamic Studies research scholar at Hamdard University, and I invite her to share her thoughts on the topic. an. Ms. Mariya Khan is an Islamic Studies research scholar at Hamdard University, and I invite her to share her thoughts on the topic.

1:31 Thank you, Razia. Thank you, Razia.

1:34 Since I'm the first speaker, I'd like to share and discuss what I have learned and what I have discovered about God on the subject of the discovery of God through my own study and through my interaction with the Maulana and with other faith leaders. Since I'm the first speaker, I'd like to share and discuss what I have learned and what I have discovered about God on the subject of the discovery of God through my own study and through my interaction with the Maulana and with other faith leaders.

1:54 So it all begins with the fact that I have been a student of physics. I studied physics at college for three years, So it all begins with the fact that I have been a student of physics. I studied physics at college for three years,

2:04 and whenever the subject of God came up, I wanted rational evidence for God. and whenever the subject of God came up, I wanted rational evidence for God.

2:13 I did not want to believe in God as a blind faith. I wanted evidence-based God, and I did not want to believe in God as we believe in superstitions. I did not want to believe in God as a blind faith. I wanted evidence-based God, and I did not want to believe in God as we believe in superstitions.

2:24 So I came across several reasonings, several proofs for the existence of God, So I came across several reasonings, several proofs for the existence of God,

2:30 and the one that perplexed me the most and the one that addressed me the most as a student of science was this whole concept of the fine-tuning of the universe. and the one that perplexed me the most and the one that addressed me the most as a student of science was this whole concept of the fine-tuning of the universe.

2:43 Now, fine-tuning means that the laws of science involve that there are certain fundamental constants in our univers Now, fine-tuning means that the laws of science involve that there are certain fundamental constants in our univers

2:53 e, and the remarkable fact is that the values of those constants appear to be so finely adjusted that make life possible as we know it now. e, and the remarkable fact is that the values of those constants appear to be so finely adjusted that make life possible as we know it now.

3:05 So this concept made me bewildered me totally. It amazed me. It astonished me. An example is the value of the cosmological constant, which is responsible for the acceleration of the universe at the current rate. So this concept made me bewildered me totally. It amazed me. It astonished me. An example is the value of the cosmological constant, which is responsible for the acceleration of the universe at the current rate.

3:19 And this constant has an extremely, extremely tiny value, and it had to have this value for stars to form, for galaxies to form, and for all of us to exist here and be present in this moment. And this constant has an extremely, extremely tiny value, and it had to have this value for stars to form, for galaxies to form, and for all of us to exist here and be present in this moment.

3:32 So I thought to myself that if we require intelligence to understand all this, then we also require an intelligence with a capital I who put all of this in place in the first instance. So I thought to myself that if we require intelligence to understand all this, then we also require an intelligence with a capital I who put all of this in place in the first instance.

3:46 So I got several proofs for the existence of God at the rational level. However, I must confess that I was not convinced. I was looking for something deeper. So I got several proofs for the existence of God at the rational level. However, I must confess that I was not convinced. I was looking for something deeper.

3:57 I was looking for something closer to my nature. I wanted to know who is God? What relation does God have with me? I was looking for something closer to my nature. I wanted to know who is God? What relation does God have with me?

4:08 What significance does God have for me in my own life? What significance does God have for me in my own life?

4:13 How do I understand that Being who is the Creator? So I did not want to believe in God as a distant entity, as a spectator God who is controlling the entire universe like a cosmic magician. How do I understand that Being who is the Creator? So I did not want to believe in God as a distant entity, as a spectator God who is controlling the entire universe like a cosmic magician.

4:27 I wanted a God who has relation with me, with whom I can understand my life. I wanted a God who has relation with me, with whom I can understand my life.

4:36 So I understood this phenomena when I was once interacting with an American lady who was my neighbor for several years. So I understood this phenomena when I was once interacting with an American lady who was my neighbor for several years.

4:46 So she was a very devoutly religious person. She was a devout Christian. So once I was speaking to her about religion, and I asked her, "What is it that makes you believe in religion so devoutly? So she was a very devoutly religious person. She was a devout Christian. So once I was speaking to her about religion, and I asked her, "What is it that makes you believe in religion so devoutly?

4:59 What is it that makes you believe in God?" What is it that makes you believe in God?"

5:02 So she revealed to me that she was a person who had a very good family, very loving children, a loving husband. So she revealed to me that she was a person who had a very good family, very loving children, a loving husband.

5:11 She had a very nice home, and she had a life that kept her very busy. But all this while, she felt that there was something within her that was lacking. She had a very nice home, and she had a life that kept her very busy. But all this while, she felt that there was something within her that was lacking.

5:22 there was a void and a hollow within her. and this hollow and this void persisted uncomfortably until she turned to religion and she turned to god There was a void and a hollow within her. And this hollow and this void persisted uncomfortably until she turned to religion and she turned to God

5:31 and that is what made her believe in god. and this whole incident reminded me of some lines from burton russell's book on the conquest of happiness. . And that is what made her believe in God. And this whole incident reminded me of some lines from Burton Russell's book on the conquest of happiness.

5:43 burton russell writes that people have a feeling of deprivation in the midst of abundance. and he says that animals are happy, and they become happy when they have enough to eat and they have a healthy and a secure l Burton Russell writes that people have a feeling of deprivation in the midst of abundance. And he says that animals are happy, and they become happy when they have enough to eat and they have a healthy and a secure l

5:58 ife. and similarly, human beings also should be happy in the modern world. but we see that they are not happy in a great majority of cases. ife. And similarly, human beings also should be happy in the modern world. But we see that they are not happy in a great majority of cases.

6:08 and i realized that this was also my own case. i reflected afterwards, and i realized that i was also suffering from a feeling of vacuum. and i realized that this vacuum cannot be fulfilled unless i believe in god. And I realized that this was also my own case. I reflected afterwards, and I realized that I was also suffering from a feeling of vacuum. And I realized that this vacuum cannot be fulfilled unless I believe in God.

6:20 so the proof for god does not exist somewhere out there. it exists in my own So the proof for God does not exist somewhere out there. It exists in my own

6:25 being. if i reflect on the state of my own being, i realize that i will not have a sense of meaning in life, a sense of fulfillment, unless i believed in god. being. If I reflect on the state of my own being, I realize that I will not have a sense of meaning in life, a sense of fulfillment, unless I believed in God.

6:38 and this meaningfulness, i realized, does not come by merely paying lip service to god, by merely having a belief in god. And this meaningfulness, I realized, does not come by merely paying lip service to God, by merely having a belief in God.

6:48 i realized that this meaningfulness comes when you believe in god and you have a deep relationship with him. I realized that this meaningfulness comes when you believe in God and you have a deep relationship with Him.

6:56 and this point became very clear to me when i read a book, a very famous book, which is considered a christian classic. it's called "in pursuit of god" by a.w. And this point became very clear to me when I read a book, a very famous book, which is considered a Christian classic. It's called "In Pursuit of God" by A.W.

7:06 tozer. and he says that we, human beings, have to aspire to a relational experience with god. Tozer. And he says that we, human beings, have to aspire to a relational experience with God.

7:16 we have to have an intimate acquaintance with god. and the quran calls it having strong affection for god. so that is the kind of relationship which i wanted with god, and that is the kind of relationship that finally addressed me on the topic of god. We have to have an intimate acquaintance with God. And the Quran calls it having strong affection for God. So that is the kind of relationship which I wanted with God, and that is the kind of relationship that finally addressed me on the topic of God.

7:33 so the prophet of islam has said that there should be moments in the life of a believer when he remembers god in solitude and his eyes are filled with tear So the Prophet of Islam has said that there should be moments in the life of a believer when he remembers God in solitude and his eyes are filled with tear

7:43 s. so this kind of communion with god fills a person with peace even in moments of deep crisis. so only yesterday, or the day before yesterday, i was listening to an interview of a very famous hollywood actor, antonio banderas. s. So this kind of communion with God fills a person with peace even in moments of deep crisis. So only yesterday, or the day before yesterday, I was listening to an interview of a very famous Hollywood actor, Antonio Banderas.

7:59 so he had a three-decade-long career in hollywood as an actor, as a director, and singer. and sometime back, he suffered a heart attack, a very sudden, surprising, shocking heart attack, because he was in the prime So he had a three-decade-long career in Hollywood as an actor, as a director, and singer. And sometime back, he suffered a heart attack, a very sudden, surprising, shocking heart attack, because he was in the prime

8:13 of his health. he had excellent health. so he said in the interview that this experience of heart attack made him suffer in solitude, made him experience suffering and solitude. of his health. He had excellent health. So he said in the interview that this experience of heart attack made him suffer in solitude, made him experience suffering and solitude.

8:29 and he said that it changed him at a very, very deep level and made him sensitive. And he said that it changed him at a very, very deep level and made him sensitive.

8:35 so i realized that these moments of crisis, which we all go through, sometimes at a smaller level, sometimes at a greater level, i think these moments of crisis are very important for the discovery of god. So I realized that these moments of crisis, which we all go through, sometimes at a smaller level, sometimes at a greater level, I think these moments of crisis are very important for the discovery of God.

8:50 they actually involuntarily lead us to god. because when we feel utterly helpless, antonio banderas said that, "i felt that i am really vulnerable." in reality, my state is a state of vulnerabil They actually involuntarily lead us to God. Because when we feel utterly helpless, Antonio Banderas said that, "I felt that I am really vulnerable." In reality, my state is a state of vulnerabil

9:03 ity. i am actually very insecure. so i realized when you feel this helplessness, this utter state of helplessness, you're automatically, you're involuntarily, your nature calls out to god in that state of helplessness, because you want a being who compensates your feeling of helplessness and your feeling of powerlessness. ity. I am actually very insecure. So I realized when you feel this helplessness, this utter state of helplessness, you're automatically, you're involuntarily, your nature calls out to God in that state of helplessness, because you want a Being who compensates your feeling of helplessness and your feeling of powerlessness.

9:24 and this occasion draws a person very near to god. and i'm reminded of an incident from the life of the prophet of islam. And this occasion draws a person very near to God. And I'm reminded of an incident from the life of the Prophet of Islam.

9:32 the prophet was once migrating from mecca to madinah because he was expelled, because people opposed his mission vehemently. The Prophet was once migrating from Mecca to Madinah because he was expelled, because people opposed his mission vehemently.

9:43 so when he started, when he had to migrate from mecca to madinah, he was accompanied by only a very single person, a very close companion of his. So when he started, when he had to migrate from Mecca to Madinah, he was accompanied by only a very single person, a very close companion of his.

9:52 and they both were actually fleeing mecca to migrate to madinah. and they came into, they took refuge in a cave. And they both were actually fleeing Mecca to migrate to Madinah. And they came into, they took refuge in a cave.

10:00 and those people who were pursuing him to kill the prophet reached the cave as well. so when his companion saw that the pursuers had reached the cave, he said to the prophet, "o prophet, these people have reached here as well. And those people who were pursuing him to kill the Prophet reached the cave as well. So when his companion saw that the pursuers had reached the cave, he said to the Prophet, "O Prophet, these people have reached here as well.

10:15 Now what do we do?" He shuddered in fear. And the Prophet said, "What do you think of those two who have God as their third companion?" Now what do we do?" He shuddered in fear. And the Prophet said, "What do you think of those two who have God as their third companion?"

10:27 So I think these moments are difficult moments. In these difficult moments, we discover God because we feel utterly helpless, and this remembrance of God brings a lot of comfort, a lot of peace, and a lot of solace. So I think these moments are difficult moments. In these difficult moments, we discover God because we feel utterly helpless, and this remembrance of God brings a lot of comfort, a lot of peace, and a lot of solace.

10:43 So involuntarily and automatically, our nature calls out to God in these very difficult So involuntarily and automatically, our nature calls out to God in these very difficult

10:49 moments. And turning to God in these difficult moments is a way of crisis management. Because many people often end up suffering from tension. moments. And turning to God in these difficult moments is a way of crisis management. Because many people often end up suffering from tension.

10:58 They lose hope. They lose courage. They become totally disheartened. And some people even commit suicide if they see no light at the end of the tunnel. They lose hope. They lose courage. They become totally disheartened. And some people even commit suicide if they see no light at the end of the tunnel.

11:08 So I was once speaking to a senior member of our centre when we were in the plane returning from another city to Delhi. So I was once speaking to a senior member of our centre when we were in the plane returning from another city to Delhi.

11:16 And he said to me that he had been sorrowful, and he had been grieving over certain issues for several years. But when he discovered God, when he started on his journey of discovering God, And he said to me that he had been sorrowful, and he had been grieving over certain issues for several years. But when he discovered God, when he started on his journey of discovering God,

11:30 he felt as if all his issues, which he had been concerned for, which had stressed him and which had made him so sad and gloomy, he felt those issues had become so trivial and so insignificant. he felt as if all his issues, which he had been concerned for, which had stressed him and which had made him so sad and gloomy, he felt those issues had become so trivial and so insignificant.

11:44 So I think the discovery of God is a kind of, you know, you feel you have a sense of loss, but when you discover God, you don't feel that loss. So I think the discovery of God is a kind of, you know, you feel you have a sense of loss, but when you discover God, you don't feel that loss.

11:53 You have loss, but you don't feel loss. So this person said to me that his loss, material loss, was converted into spiritual gain. You have loss, but you don't feel loss. So this person said to me that his loss, material loss, was converted into spiritual gain.

12:02 So not only death and disaster and loss make you discover God, it makes you realize that you need a Being whom you can take refuge in and who gives you comfort and solace. So not only death and disaster and loss make you discover God, it makes you realize that you need a Being whom you can take refuge in and who gives you comfort and solace.

12:16 Even in everyday moments, I think one can discover God, one can realize God. And only some days back, I was very upset for a few days, successively, over an incident Even in everyday moments, I think one can discover God, one can realize God. And only some days back, I was very upset for a few days, successively, over an incident

12:30 . And one morning, my husband came to me before leaving for work, and he said to me that, "Why are you sad when God has given you so much?" And this was a very plain and a very simple statement, and I think he doesn't even remember it now. . And one morning, my husband came to me before leaving for work, and he said to me that, "Why are you sad when God has given you so much?" And this was a very plain and a very simple statement, and I think he doesn't even remember it now.

12:46 But for me, it really shook me, and it remained with me throughout the day. And I thought that, yes, God has blessed me so much. But for me, it really shook me, and it remained with me throughout the day. And I thought that, yes, God has blessed me so much.

12:55 Why am I sad? I'm enjoying so many bounties, so many blessings of God. Why am I sad? I'm enjoying so many bounties, so many blessings of God.

13:00 I mean, if you have sunlight entering your room, you have theright amount of oxygen in the air, you have fresh water to drink, you have cooked food ready for you to eat. I mean, if you have sunlight entering your room, you have theright amount of oxygen in the air, you have fresh water to drink, you have cooked food ready for you to eat.

13:09 So I'm truly blessed. So the 1% thing over which I had been complaining all this while, now I turned my attention to the 99% that God had given me. So I'm truly blessed. So the 1% thing over which I had been complaining all this while, now I turned my attention to the 99% that God had given me.

13:20 And that filled me with a sense of positivity, with gratitude. And that filled me with a sense of positivity, with gratitude.

13:25 So I think this belief in God and this discovery of God, process of discovering God, changes you and transforms you at a very deep level. So I think this belief in God and this discovery of God, process of discovering God, changes you and transforms you at a very deep level.

13:34 And this whole concept is called the Dabbur in the Quran, or Tawassum. That is taking lessons from everyday events, learning, constantly remembering God from everything that is happening around you. And this whole concept is called the Dabbur in the Quran, or Tawassum. That is taking lessons from everyday events, learning, constantly remembering God from everything that is happening around you.

13:45 So something might be very commonplace, very ordinary, very usual, but trying to convert and discovering the extraordinary in the ordinary event So something might be very commonplace, very ordinary, very usual, but trying to convert and discovering the extraordinary in the ordinary event

13:54 . And that is a very important way of establishing contact with God and developing an emotional bond with God. And it leads you to thank God from the depth of your heart. . And that is a very important way of establishing contact with God and developing an emotional bond with God. And it leads you to thank God from the depth of your heart.

14:05 And this makes me come to a very important concept, which I learned from the Bhagavad Gita. And this makes me come to a very important concept, which I learned from the Bhagavad Gita.

14:12 There is a concept called Sannyasa or Sannyas. And the commentary that I was reading was from Swami Chinmayananda. And he says that Sannyas or Sannyasa generally means running away from the world. There is a concept called Sannyasa or Sannyas. And the commentary that I was reading was from Swami Chinmayananda. And he says that Sannyas or Sannyasa generally means running away from the world.

14:26 But he says that I refute this. Sannyas does not mean running away from the world or abandoning the world But he says that I refute this. Sannyas does not mean running away from the world or abandoning the world

14:32 Sannyas basically means the art of living in the world, wherever you be, whatever you be doing, whatever profession you may have, and having a life devoted to God and living a godly life. . Sannyas basically means the art of living in the world, wherever you be, whatever you be doing, whatever profession you may have, and having a life devoted to God and living a godly life.

14:43 It does not mean running away from the world, escaping from the world, going to the mountains, or wearing a specific attire which monks wear to signify that you're godly. It does not mean running away from the world, escaping from the world, going to the mountains, or wearing a specific attire which monks wear to signify that you're godly.

14:52 Its living in the world, in the midst of people, and behaving in a godly way. It's living in the world, in the midst of people, and behaving in a godly way.

14:56 And Maulana also said to me once that if you are a prepared mind, every event, every incident will trigger you and make you remember God. And Maulana also said to me once that if you are a prepared mind, every event, every incident will trigger you and make you remember God.

15:08 So I was recently watching a documentary on the cosmos. Its called "Cosmos: The Space-Time Odyssey." So I was recently watching a documentary on the cosmos. It's called "Cosmos: The Space-Time Odyssey."

15:15 So in that, I was just thrilled and filled with awe at the mere vastness of the universe, of the scale of the universe. So in that, I was just thrilled and filled with awe at the mere vastness of the universe, of the scale of the universe.

15:26 It filled me with awe. And thats why it is said that astronomy is a humbling discipline. It filled me with awe. And that's why it is said that astronomy is a humbling discipline.

15:32 And not only astronomy, I think even if you go to the very small level, if you go to the microscopic level, and you see that at the microscopic level, the physics that works is quantum mechanics. And not only astronomy, I think even if you go to the very small level, if you go to the microscopic level, and you see that at the microscopic level, the physics that works is quantum mechanics.

15:44 And it tells us basically that a particle, no particles at the microscopic level have a very probabilistic and uncertain behavior. And it tells us basically that a particle, no particles at the microscopic level have a very probabilistic and uncertain behavior.

15:53 So scientists say that we cannot determine with perfect exactitude what is happening at the microscopic level. And that makes them feel that human beings cannot determine whats happening at the microscopic level, not because our theories are faulty, not because our equipment has a shortcoming. So scientists say that we cannot determine with perfect exactitude what is happening at the microscopic level. And that makes them feel that human beings cannot determine what's happening at the microscopic level, not because our theories are faulty, not because our equipment has a shortcoming.

16:12 Its because we, by nature, have an inability; human beings have an inability to understand what is happening at the microscop It's because we, by nature, have an inability; human beings have an inability to understand what is happening at the microscop

16:21 ic level. We need a super being to understand whats happening there. So all this realization, this study and observation, as Maulana says, every study, every observation, every experience should make you, should trigger your mind such that you can discover God, an aspect of God, a Divine attribute. ic level. We need a super being to understand what's happening there. So all this realization, this study and observation, as Maulana says, every study, every observation, every experience should make you, should trigger your mind such that you can discover God, an aspect of God, a Divine attribute.

16:41 And I'd like to just end by saying that although being a student of physics, I have always wanted a rational proof, I wanted logic, I wanted reasoning. And I'd like to just end by saying that although being a student of physics, I have always wanted a rational proof, I wanted logic, I wanted reasoning.

16:52 But after my interactions with Maulana, and after I turned to religion in the true sense, I felt that when you discover God at the level of inner feelings, in the way that a Hollywood actor discovered, in the way that American Lady discovered, in the way the member of CPS whom I was talking about But after my interactions with Maulana, and after I turned to religion in the true sense, I felt that when you discover God at the level of inner feelings, in the way that a Hollywood actor discovered, in the way that American Lady discovered, in the way the member of CPS whom I was talking about

17:10 , when you discover God at that inner psychological level, at the level of your feelings, that discovery of God gives you such deep conviction and strong conviction that you will not require any rational argument. , when you discover God at that inner psychological level, at the level of your feelings, that discovery of God gives you such deep conviction and strong conviction that you will not require any rational argument.

17:23 It is stronger than any kind of rational argument. Its the kind of love that you have for your mother. You cannot prove that shes your mother, but you have that inner feeling of love. It is stronger than any kind of rational argument. It's the kind of love that you have for your mother. You cannot prove that she's your mother, but you have that inner feeling of love.

17:33 So that is how I have been able to understand God So that is how I have been able to understand God

17:36 . I'd like to end by a saying from the Prophets life. The Prophet once said that discovering, a discerning person should have some special moments in his life, a moment of communion with God, a moment of self-examination, . I'd like to end by a saying from the Prophet's life. The Prophet once said that discovering, a discerning person should have some special moments in his life, a moment of communion with God, a moment of self-examination,

17:55 and a moment of reflection over the mysteries of creation, and a moment which he puts aside for eating and drinking. Thank you. and a moment of reflection over the mysteries of creation, and a moment which he puts aside for eating and drinking. Thank you.

18:04 Thank you, Maria, for that insightful talk. Thank you, Maria, for that insightful talk.

18:06 I think it was, and for sharing with us how, you know, our everyday experiences and the moments of crisis, particularly, can help us build that relational experience of the strong affection with a higher being and our Creator. I think it was, and for sharing with us how, you know, our everyday experiences and the moments of crisis, particularly, can help us build that relational experience of the strong affection with a higher being and our Creator.

18:19 Thank you for that. I now would like to invite on our second speaker for the day, which is Dr. Rajat Malhotra. Hes a member of CPS International and an investment professional Thank you for that. I now would like to invite on our second speaker for the day, which is Dr. Rajat Malhotra. He's a member of CPS International and an investment professional

18:32 . Hes extremely passionate about interfaith dialogue and has a doctorate in Islamic studies. Dr. Rajat. Thank you, Razia. . He's extremely passionate about interfaith dialogue and has a doctorate in Islamic studies. Dr. Rajat. Thank you, Razia.

18:40 Well, I would start by saying that belief in God runs in our blood. Every man and woman is a born believer. You can say that every person is born twice in his or her l Well, I would start by saying that belief in God runs in our blood. Every man and woman is a born believer. You can say that every person is born twice in his or her l

18:53 ifetime. The first is a physical birth, for which our parents are instrumental. And the second birth is a spiritual birth, which one attains by his or her own efforts. ifetime. The first is a physical birth, for which our parents are instrumental. And the second birth is a spiritual birth, which one attains by his or her own efforts.

19:03 Now, the discovery of God, as Maria also mentioned, starts with seeking. Seeking means activating your mind, your eyes, and your ears. Now, the discovery of God, as Maria also mentioned, starts with seeking. Seeking means activating your mind, your eyes, and your ears.

19:14 And here I would like to say that if a person is a seeker, he's bound to reach his goal. And here I would like to say that if a person is a seeker, he's bound to reach his goal.

19:21 This is a Divine law of nature, which is immutable. It was very well expressed by the words of Jesus Christ, who said, "Ask and you will receive, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you." So I found a very good expression of the spirit of these words in the sayings of Great Swami Vivekananda Ji. This is a Divine law of nature, which is immutable. It was very well expressed by the words of Jesus Christ, who said, "Ask and you will receive, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you." So I found a very good expression of the spirit of these words in the sayings of Great Swami Vivekananda Ji.

19:43 He said, "Arise, awake, and stop not till you reach your goal." He said, "Arise, awake, and stop not till you reach your goal."

19:49 So it is impossible for anyone who is imbued with the spirit of questing spirit not to achieve his goal. The problem is that most of the time, as Maria also mentioned, that people ask for rational basis for the existence of God. So it is impossible for anyone who is imbued with the spirit of questing spirit not to achieve his goal. The problem is that most of the time, as Maria also mentioned, that people ask for rational basis for the existence of God.

20:07 They want a scientific explanation for their inner feelings. Now, there is nothing wrong with it. There is a scientific explanation, you know, for God's existence. They want a scientific explanation for their inner feelings. Now, there is nothing wrong with it. There is a scientific explanation, you know, for God's existence.

20:16 But But

20:17 the problem is that people fail to discover it because they apply a criteria, which is neither scientific nor aright criteria to judge. the problem is that people fail to discover it because they apply a criteria, which is neither scientific nor aright criteria to judge.

20:26 They want to find the explanation of God in terms of observation. And observation-based criteria is certainly not theright criteria. They want to find the explanation of God in terms of observation. And observation-based criteria is certainly not theright criteria.

20:35 On a different level, you know, I would like to narrate a personal experience that I had, which was about eight years ago, and it was a lifetime experience, a life-changing experience for me. On a different level, you know, I would like to narrate a personal experience that I had, which was about eight years ago, and it was a lifetime experience, a life-changing experience for me.

20:45 I decided to do my master's course, and I went to Kerala to do it from Kerala University. When I landed in Kerala, I mean, I had no friend, no relative. I decided to do my master's course, and I went to Kerala to do it from Kerala University. When I landed in Kerala, I mean, I had no friend, no relative.

20:56 I knew no one in that city. So after I took my first exam, I had to take about eight papers over a period of 30 days, one month. I knew no one in that city. So after I took my first exam, I had to take about eight papers over a period of 30 days, one month.

21:05 But after taking the first exam, I started experiencing lower back problems. But after taking the first exam, I started experiencing lower back problems.

21:11 And by late afternoon and late evening, it became a full-blown back problem. I was very scared because I had seven more papers, nobody with me in Kerala. And by late afternoon and late evening, it became a full-blown back problem. I was very scared because I had seven more papers, nobody with me in Kerala.

21:21 And I was lying on the bed, looking at the high ceiling of the room. Negative thoughts just started hitting me from left,right, and centre. And I was lying on the bed, looking at the high ceiling of the room. Negative thoughts just started hitting me from left,right, and centre.

21:30 I started visualizing that I'm being airlifted in an air ambulance and the sinking feeling that I will let everybody down, my guru, Maulana Vaiduddin Khan, sub down and everybody down. I started visualizing that I'm being airlifted in an air ambulance and the sinking feeling that I will let everybody down, my guru, Maulana Vaiduddin Khan, sub down and everybody down.

21:40 And my dream of doing PhD was just vaporizing in the negative thoughts. But then something very interesting happened. You know, at the peak of this negativity and excruciating pain, which was unbearable, I began to talk with God. And my dream of doing PhD was just vaporizing in the negative thoughts. But then something very interesting happened. You know, at the peak of this negativity and excruciating pain, which was unbearable, I began to talk with God.

21:56 I started telling God about my helplessness, about my pain. And then I said to God that, "God, you've created this entire universe, you've created this entire mankind, and you want every single soul to live in peace and harmony. I started telling God about my helplessness, about my pain. And then I said to God that, "God, you've created this entire universe, you've created this entire mankind, and you want every single soul to live in peace and harmony.

22:11 My objective of doing this course is to work in that direction and to propagate the message of peace and harmony. How can you let me fail?" And I remember that while I was doing this conversation, courage began to come within m My objective of doing this course is to work in that direction and to propagate the message of peace and harmony. How can you let me fail?" And I remember that while I was doing this conversation, courage began to come within m

22:26 e. My negative thoughts started turning to positive. And I said to myself that I'm not going to give up. So I called up myorthopaedic surgeon in Delhi, and he advised me some SOS medicine. e. My negative thoughts started turning to positive. And I said to myself that I'm not going to give up. So I called up myorthopaedic surgeon in Delhi, and he advised me some SOS medicine.

22:38 I remember walking up to that chemist's shop; it was the longest walk of my life because it was just less than three minutes' distance. But I took 30 minutes to reach there to get my SOS medicine, a back belt. I remember walking up to that chemist's shop; it was the longest walk of my life because it was just less than three minutes' distance. But I took 30 minutes to reach there to get my SOS medicine, a back belt.

22:50 And I came back, laid on the bed, and began to study. And I came back, laid on the bed, and began to study.

22:54 Two days later, my wife, Stuti, came from Delhi to help me and get me better. And I completed my seven papers in over the next 30 days. Two days later, my wife, Stuti, came from Delhi to help me and get me better. And I completed my seven papers in over the next 30 days.

23:05 When I look back, I realize God's way of help and His presence. He did not come in person to help me, but He showered His blessings in unexpected ways. When I look back, I realize God's way of help and His presence. He did not come in person to help me, but He showered His blessings in unexpected ways.

23:16 I realized that how my guru, Maulana Vaiduddin Khan Sahib, and CPS members prayed for m I realized that how my guru, Maulana Vaiduddin Khan Sahib, and CPS members prayed for m

23:21 e, how great courage and Sakina, which is calmness of heart, descended upon me, how getting an auto rickshaw every day was so super easy, as if, you know, He was waiting for me to take to the examination centre, how I got accommodation in YMCA in Travandrum, which was a great blessing for me, and how Stuti came from Delhi when she had never travelled in her life alone, and how forgotten lines started coming while I was writing my exam. e, how great courage and Sakina, which is calmness of heart, descended upon me, how getting an auto rickshaw every day was so super easy, as if, you know, He was waiting for me to take to the examination centre, how I got accommodation in YMCA in Travandrum, which was a great blessing for me, and how Stuti came from Delhi when she had never travelled in her life alone, and how forgotten lines started coming while I was writing my exam.

23:47 So the point that I'm trying to make is that this is the story of every man and woman played in one or the different ways. All men and women, like Maria also mentioned beautifully, that we suffer from limitations when we are not able to achieve what we want to do in life. So the point that I'm trying to make is that this is the story of every man and woman played in one or the different ways. All men and women, like Maria also mentioned beautifully, that we suffer from limitations when we are not able to achieve what we want to do in life.

24:03 Each one of us experiences illness, accident, old age, death in the family. Each one of us experiences illness, accident, old age, death in the family.

24:10 Now, all these experiences just remind us that there is a superior being, and we are in need of that superior being to get on with our life. Now, all these experiences just remind us that there is a superior being, and we are in need of that superior being to get on with our life.

24:20 These feelings, I would say, amount to the psychological proof of the existence of God. We go through this psychological experience at some point of time in our life. These feelings, I would say, amount to the psychological proof of the existence of God. We go through this psychological experience at some point of time in our life.

24:31 So without God, we cannot continue. Without God, we cannot succeed in our life. So without God, we cannot continue. Without God, we cannot succeed in our life.

24:37 I realized that, you know, the key in life is leading a God-oriented life. Now, how do we define this God-oriented life? I realized that, you know, the key in life is leading a God-oriented life. Now, how do we define this God-oriented life?

24:46 And how does it really change us? I found a very good example from the cosmic world to define God-oriented life. And how does it really change us? I found a very good example from the cosmic world to define God-oriented life.

24:55 We all know that Earth is the satellite of the Sun, and it takes a full one year to rotate around the Sun. We all know that Earth is the satellite of the Sun, and it takes a full one year to rotate around the Sun.

25:03 Now, this rotation or this movement of Earth around the Sun is very essential for the healthy functioning of life on Earth. You and I would not exist if this rotation does not happen. Now, this rotation or this movement of Earth around the Sun is very essential for the healthy functioning of life on Earth. You and I would not exist if this rotation does not happen.

25:16 So this gives us a very good practical demonstration of how we should lead our lives in this world. Just as the Earth revolves around the Sun, similarly, we should revolve around all, or we should base all our activities around God. So this gives us a very good practical demonstration of how we should lead our lives in this world. Just as the Earth revolves around the Sun, similarly, we should revolve around all, or we should base all our activities around God.

25:32 The important difference is that while, you know, the Earth as a satellite revolves on the compulsive law of nature, it has to revolve. The important difference is that while, you know, the Earth as a satellite revolves on the compulsive law of nature, it has to revolve.

25:42 But man has free will. So when man, with this free will, surrenders to God with full consciousness, this consciousness is the real ascension of man. But man has free will. So when man, with this free will, surrenders to God with full consciousness, this consciousness is the real ascension of man.

25:54 And in this consciousness lies the success, the key to all the success And in this consciousness lies the success, the key to all the success

25:59 . Let me explain to you how life gets transformed when we lead, you know, a God-oriented life. The first biggest transformation that a person who leads a God-oriented life experiences is that he becomes modest. . Let me explain to you how life gets transformed when we lead, you know, a God-oriented life. The first biggest transformation that a person who leads a God-oriented life experiences is that he becomes modest.

26:14 Now, modesty is an incomparable virtue. The Quran has this to say in Chapter 25, Verse Now, modesty is an incomparable virtue. The Quran has this to say in Chapter 25, Verse

26:22 63. The Quran says, "The true servants of the Gracious One are those who walk upon the Earth with humility. 63. The Quran says, "The true servants of the Gracious One are those who walk upon the Earth with humility.

26:31 And when they are addressed by the ignorant ones, their response is peace." So modesty is an essential aspect of human life in thinking, in speech, in behaviour, in dealing with when somebody is angry or he provokes you. And when they are addressed by the ignorant ones, their response is peace." So modesty is an essential aspect of human life in thinking, in speech, in behaviour, in dealing with when somebody is angry or he provokes you.

26:47 A modest person would just say, "Let's not quarrel and let's go our own way." So A modest person would just say, "Let's not quarrel and let's go our own way." So

26:52 a person who's leading a God-oriented life is modest in the complete sense of the word. Modesty has two benefits. The first benefit is that a person becomes a better member of society. a person who's leading a God-oriented life is modest in the complete sense of the word. Modesty has two benefits. The first benefit is that a person becomes a better member of society.

27:05 And secondly, it opens a door to knowledge. A person who is a seeker, he will be imbued with the seeking, with the spirit of learning. So a modest person will try to learn from everyone, irrespective of age, religion, or status. And secondly, it opens a door to knowledge. A person who is a seeker, he will be imbued with the seeking, with the spirit of learning. So a modest person will try to learn from everyone, irrespective of age, religion, or status.

27:21 So I would say that it's the master formula for all kinds of success. The opposite of modesty, of course, is arrogance, which closes the door of blessings of God for any person. So I would say that it's the master formula for all kinds of success. The opposite of modesty, of course, is arrogance, which closes the door of blessings of God for any person.

27:33 Now, the other important thing that changes a person when he leads a God-oriented life is that the person becomes a patient personality. Now, the other important thing that changes a person when he leads a God-oriented life is that the person becomes a patient personality.

27:42 The Quran says a lot. It emphasises a lot on patience, on sabr. The Quran says a lot. It emphasises a lot on patience, on sabr.

27:46 It says in Chapter 39, Verse 10, "Truly, those who persevere patiently will be requited without measure." Now, this is very amazing because in the entire Quran, It says in Chapter 39, Verse 10, "Truly, those who persevere patiently will be requited without measure." Now, this is very amazing because in the entire Quran,

28:00 such a verse has not appeared for any other deed. So only for patience, the Quran says that the reward is countless. such a verse has not appeared for any other deed. So only for patience, the Quran says that the reward is countless.

28:10 This means that patience and reward are insepar This means that patience and reward are insepar

28:13 able. So what patience really does is it helps in developing a person's personality. So personality development is one of the most important qualities that a person has. able. So what patience really does is it helps in developing a person's personality. So personality development is one of the most important qualities that a person has.

28:23 It separates a man from an animal. And the source of this personality development is patience. In fact, in reality, we all are born with unlimited potential. It separates a man from an animal. And the source of this personality development is patience. In fact, in reality, we all are born with unlimited potential.

28:35 And this potential starts to unfold as soon as man is born. And this potential starts to unfold as soon as man is born.

28:41 And I want to give an allegorical reference from the Quran. It's a beautiful reference. Personally, I like this reference a lot. It's full of wisdom. And I want to give an allegorical reference from the Quran. It's a beautiful reference. Personally, I like this reference a lot. It's full of wisdom.

28:50 It's in Chapter 14, Verse 24 to 25. The Quran says, "Have you not considered how God sets forth a parable of a good word like a good tree?" It's in Chapter 14, Verse 24 to 25. The Quran says, "Have you not considered how God sets forth a parable of a good word like a good tree?

29:03 Its root is firm, and its branches are in the sk Its root is firm, and its branches are in the sk

29:07 y. It yields its fruit each season with its Lord's permission." God makes such comparisons for people in order that they may reflect. y. It yields its fruit each season with its Lord's permission." God makes such comparisons for people in order that they may reflect.

29:18 So a good man is like a good tree. But why is man being compared to a tree? Because if you look at a tree, it starts with a seed. But then a seed turns into a plant, and then into a stronger tree trunk, and then into branches, and into leaves, and flowers, and fruits. So a good man is like a good tree. But why is man being compared to a tree? Because if you look at a tree, it starts with a seed. But then a seed turns into a plant, and then into a stronger tree trunk, and then into branches, and into leaves, and flowers, and fruits.

29:35 So what we learn from here is that just as the tree is transforming physically, men and women must develop the same qualities in terms of morality. So what we learn from here is that just as the tree is transforming physically, men and women must develop the same qualities in terms of morality.

29:46 Every human being should be stronger like a tree trunk. His character should be as vibrant as leaves. He should be as fruitful to the society. Every human being should be stronger like a tree trunk. His character should be as vibrant as leaves. He should be as fruitful to the society.

29:55 And just like, you know, a tree gives oxygen to everyone, similarly, man should provide shelter to his or her fellow being And just like, you know, a tree gives oxygen to everyone, similarly, man should provide shelter to his or her fellow being

30:03 s. The important thing here is that, you know, a tree is a unilateral member of the world. It's a giver member of the world. s. The important thing here is that, you know, a tree is a unilateral member of the world. It's a giver member of the world.

30:12 It does not, for example, it gives us free oxygen, but does not send us a bill. So similarly, men and women should live in this society as a giver member of the society. It does not, for example, it gives us free oxygen, but does not send us a bill. So similarly, men and women should live in this society as a giver member of the society.

30:23 And that's how the society becomes beautiful. And that's how the society becomes beautiful.

30:26 Here, I want to just add one point that one of the biggest hindrances of personality development or unfolding of one's potential is a negative response to unwanted situations. Here, I want to just add one point that one of the biggest hindrances of personality development or unfolding of one's potential is a negative response to unwanted situations.

30:38 We all face negative situations. And these negative situations, if we give a negative response, it obstructs the natural growth of a person We all face negative situations. And these negative situations, if we give a negative response, it obstructs the natural growth of a person

30:50 . So the important point is to to leave to live in a society in a manner which does not impact a person. . So the important point is to to leave to live in a society in a manner which does not impact a person.

30:59 Now, we get a very good example from nature, from the honeybee. We all know that, you know, a honeybee goes from its hive in search of nectar. Now, we get a very good example from nature, from the honeybee. We all know that, you know, a honeybee goes from its hive in search of nectar.

31:09 In its journey to the flower, it encompasses a lot of difficulties, including the thorns that are there in the flowers. But it doesn't complain. In its journey to the flower, it encompasses a lot of difficulties, including the thorns that are there in the flowers. But it doesn't complain.

31:17 It It

31:18 just goes to the flower, it retrieves its nectar, and it comes back. So the great symbolic lesson that we are getting here from the honeybee is that do not protest, do not complain. just goes to the flower, it retrieves its nectar, and it comes back. So the great symbolic lesson that we are getting here from the honeybee is that do not protest, do not complain.

31:29 Take what is desirable and leave what is undesirable. This way, you will be able to lead a life which will help in unfolding your potential. Take what is desirable and leave what is undesirable. This way, you will be able to lead a life which will help in unfolding your potential.

31:39 Le Le

31:40 ading a focused life not only helps in avoiding being provocative, but it also helps in not disrupting your concentration. ading a focused life not only helps in avoiding being provocative, but it also helps in not disrupting your concentration.

31:50 So, uh, adopting a honeybee culture is one great example that we have for all of us. The other thing that I want to mention, the third thing is that a person who leads a God-oriented life, he experiences peace of mind So, uh, adopting a honeybee culture is one great example that we have for all of us. The other thing that I want to mention, the third thing is that a person who leads a God-oriented life, he experiences peace of mind

32:04 . Now, everybody, I mean, in this room or people who are watching this live, this programme, they would agree that peace of mind is a rare phenomenon. We all want peace of mind, but we don't get it. . Now, everybody, I mean, in this room or people who are watching this live, this programme, they would agree that peace of mind is a rare phenomenon. We all want peace of mind, but we don't get it.

32:15 Most of the time, people are in negativity or in depression. So what is the solution to this problem? The Quran gives a solution in unequivocal terms. Most of the time, people are in negativity or in depression. So what is the solution to this problem? The Quran gives a solution in unequivocal terms.

32:27 It says in Chapter 13, Verse 28, "Those who believe and whose hearts find comfort in the remembrance of God, surely in the remembrance of God, hearts can find comfort." So the lesson that we are getting here is that remembrance of God is the key to peace of mind. It says in Chapter 13, Verse 28, "Those who believe and whose hearts find comfort in the remembrance of God, surely in the remembrance of God, hearts can find comfort." So the lesson that we are getting here is that remembrance of God is the key to peace of mind.

32:47 Now, here, remembrance of God does not mean chanting of the word God. Now, here, remembrance of God does not mean chanting of the word God.

32:52 It basically means that one is content with the creation plan of God, with the Divine plan of God. What is this Divine plan of God? It basically means that one is content with the creation plan of God, with the Divine plan of God. What is this Divine plan of God?

33:02 Now, according to the creation plan, every person is created as an ideal seeking Now, according to the creation plan, every person is created as an ideal seeking

33:08 animal. We all want perfection. We all want an ideal life. But the world around us has limitations. And it is this gap between a seeker and an achievement that creates negativity, that creates disruption in the mind. animal. We all want perfection. We all want an ideal life. But the world around us has limitations. And it is this gap between a seeker and an achievement that creates negativity, that creates disruption in the mind.

33:23 So in this situation, the the formula that we need to adopt is to adjust yourself to the external world rather than try to mold the world according to your own desires. So in this situation, the the formula that we need to adopt is to adjust yourself to the external world rather than try to mold the world according to your own desires.

33:36 One should learn the art of desire management. I remember, I mean, Maulana Vaiduddin Khan Sahib, my guru, I mean, he always has been emphasising one very important principle. One should learn the art of desire management. I remember, I mean, Maulana Vaiduddin Khan Sahib, my guru, I mean, he always has been emphasising one very important principle.

33:48 He says that if you want to have a peaceful life or a successful life, and if you want to be connected with God, there is just one formula that you all need to adopt. He says that if you want to have a peaceful life or a successful life, and if you want to be connected with God, there is just one formula that you all need to adopt.

33:59 And it's an age-old saying, which is simple living and high thinking. And it's an age-old saying, which is simple living and high thinking.

34:03 It's very important that we rediscover this principle that he emphasises a lot. And I want to give an example here. This is also my last part of the talk. It's very important that we rediscover this principle that he emphasises a lot. And I want to give an example here. This is also my last part of the talk.

34:13 Because if this is not understood, it can really derail the discovery of God and also in leading a God-oriented life. In a society or in a world, we are always told that the measure of success is how wealthy we are. Because if this is not understood, it can really derail the discovery of God and also in leading a God-oriented life. In a society or in a world, we are always told that the measure of success is how wealthy we are.

34:30 In fact, I would even say that many of us who are sitting here or the parents, all of us, we always, you know, say that work, we never say that work hard to discover God. In fact, I would even say that many of us who are sitting here or the parents, all of us, we always, you know, say that work, we never say that work hard to discover God.

34:41 The narrative has always been work hard, you know, to get a good job, a big house, or corporate fame, or, you know, overseas vacation. So the narrative has always been, you know, the other way around. The narrative has always been work hard, you know, to get a good job, a big house, or corporate fame, or, you know, overseas vacation. So the narrative has always been, you know, the other way around.

34:52 So I want to share this heartbreaking, real, tragic story of Dr. Richard Teo Kang Si So I want to share this heartbreaking, real, tragic story of Dr. Richard Teo Kang Si

34:59 ang. He was a millionaire Singapore, uh, cosmetic surgeon who died at an early age of 40 years. ang. He was a millionaire Singapore, uh, cosmetic surgeon who died at an early age of 40 years.

35:07 In fact, he he shifted from the field of ophthalmology to cosmetic surgery. And he raked in millions of dollars. In fact, he he shifted from the field of ophthalmology to cosmetic surgery. And he raked in millions of dollars.

35:15 He had supercars. He used to dine at the fanciest of the restaurants, brush his elbows with the richest of the elite. But he regretted in life He had supercars. He used to dine at the fanciest of the restaurants, brush his elbows with the richest of the elite. But he regretted in life

35:26 when his days were numbered. He said that, "I regret that I focused my life on making money, and I neglected God." He said that one of the valuable lessons that I have learned in life is that there is more to life than to money. when his days were numbered. He said that, "I regret that I focused my life on making money, and I neglected God." He said that one of the valuable lessons that I have learned in life is that there is more to life than to money.

35:41 Dying of cancer, Dr. Richard says that the source of happiness or the joy is not in money. Dying of cancer, Dr. Richard says that the source of happiness or the joy is not in money.

35:49 For all you know, money could be the source of all the evil. For all you know, money could be the source of all the evil.

35:53 In fact, he said famously now that, "I'm a typical product of a society. As a child, I was always influenced and impressed by the fact that, you know, to be happy is to be successful. In fact, he said famously now that, "I'm a typical product of a society. As a child, I was always influenced and impressed by the fact that, you know, to be happy is to be successful.

36:05 And to be successful means how wealthy you are." And I led my life with this motto. And to be successful means how wealthy you are." And I led my life with this motto.

36:11 So when I read this article, you know, of Dr. Richard Teo, it really shook me up. And it reminded me of one of the verses from Chapter 102 of the Quran, Verses 1 to 3, where the Quran says, "Greed for more and more distracted you from the remembrance of God till you reached your grave." So man foolishly thinks that accumulating wealth is akin to adding to success. So when I read this article, you know, of Dr. Richard Teo, it really shook me up. And it reminded me of one of the verses from Chapter 102 of the Quran, Verses 1 to 3, where the Quran says, "Greed for more and more distracted you from the remembrance of God till you reached your grave." So man foolishly thinks that accumulating wealth is akin to adding to success.

36:38 Money is not a goal in itself. Money is not a goal in itself.

36:41 Money helps in meeting your physical requirements. But man is more than more than money. Man is more than a physical entity. Man is an intellectual being. Money helps in meeting your physical requirements. But man is more than more than money. Man is more than a physical entity. Man is an intellectual being.

36:51 While materialism can, you know, help you to a certain extent, but if you focus on intellectual development, the field is vast. You can keep on unfolding your potential as long as you are alive. While materialism can, you know, help you to a certain extent, but if you focus on intellectual development, the field is vast. You can keep on unfolding your potential as long as you are alive.

37:03 So for both men and women, money-oriented thinking is the greatest source of distraction from theright path So for both men and women, money-oriented thinking is the greatest source of distraction from theright path

37:10 . Man is greater than money. Swami Vivekananda Ji said, "The life is short. The vanities of the world are transient. . Man is greater than money. Swami Vivekananda Ji said, "The life is short. The vanities of the world are transient.

37:19 And people who live for materialism are more dead than alive." So we have very less time on Earth, and the journey is incomplete without discovering the true purpose of life. And people who live for materialism are more dead than alive." So we have very less time on Earth, and the journey is incomplete without discovering the true purpose of life.

37:32 At several places, the Quran says that when the Day of Reckoning comes, you will feel as if you have lived for only one morning and one evening. At several places, the Quran says that when the Day of Reckoning comes, you will feel as if you have lived for only one morning and one evening.

37:41 So all that accumulation that we are doing is for one morning and one evening. So before it's too late, I would say that we should think and discover what is the true purpose of life, what is the real meaning of life. So all that accumulation that we are doing is for one morning and one evening. So before it's too late, I would say that we should think and discover what is the true purpose of life, what is the real meaning of life.

37:55 Uh, Urdu poet Fani beautifully summarises it Uh, Urdu poet Fani beautifully summarises it

37:59 . Uh, he says that, "Uh, Fareeb-e Jalwa or Kitra Mukammal, Eh Maazallah, badi mushkil se dil ko apne buzz mein aalam se utha paya." Meaning that all this glitter of the world, it looks so mukammal, it looks so complete. . Uh, he says that, "Uh, Fareeb-e Jalwa or Kitra Mukammal, Eh Maazallah, badi mushkil se dil ko apne buzz mein aalam se utha paya." Meaning that all this glitter of the world, it looks so mukammal, it looks so complete.

38:15 You feel as if this is everything. This is reality. So he says, "With great difficulty, I was able to detach myself from the material world." You feel as if this is everything. This is reality. So he says, "With great difficulty, I was able to detach myself from the material world."

38:25 So, uh, I would just say in the end that discovery of God and then, uh, remembrance of God gives the real happiness and prepares us to lead a successful life. So, uh, I would just say in the end that discovery of God and then, uh, remembrance of God gives the real happiness and prepares us to lead a successful life.

38:36 May God guide us, and may God help us. Thank you. Thank you, Rajat. It was a very important lesson how, uh, the discovery of God and finding that purpose can truly satiate the intellectual beings that we are and makes us a better member of the society. May God guide us, and may God help us. Thank you. Thank you, Rajat. It was a very important lesson how, uh, the discovery of God and finding that purpose can truly satiate the intellectual beings that we are and makes us a better member of the society.

38:51 Thank you for that. Thank you for that.