The significance of fire in holy ceremony – Why do we suffer? – What is “New Spirituality”?

What is the significance of fire in holy ceremony?

Sadhvi Bhagawatiji discusses the significance of fire explaining that fire symbolises the Divine purifier; it removes the things we don’t need that we’ve piled on top of our innate goodness, things like ego, expectation and jealousy, that keep us from realising our true Divine Selves. The rise of the flames to their source (the sun) reminds us we are not supposed to be stuck down low either, but to rise up ever higher toward our Source. Sadhviji reminds us that we are not created by the Divine, but out of the Divine and to that Source we can return.

Why do we suffer?

Sadhviji explains the two reasons for suffering, both stemming from ignorance. She illustrates the first (physical) kind through the example of planting a fruit tree; we choose a type of seed, we plant it, it grows, we eat the fruit, and we have an allergic reaction. So we learn we must plant a different crop. If we suffer, it is because we have planted seeds of suffering, this is simply nature’s law. The second kind of suffering (psychological) stems from ignorance of our true purpose. We have created a picture in our minds of how our lives should be based upon a variety of, often contradictory, externals (family, society, media etc.) that is unattainable and ever-changing, this causes great confusion and suffering. That can be removed by the light of awareness, wisdom and discrimination that shows us our truth.

What is “New Spirituality”?

Sadhviji explains what “New Spirituality” is. If old spirituality was about being a container of spirit, new spirituality is about being a tool – a vessel – of spirit. New spirituality is not about recreating spirit, spirit is infinite and timeless. Our solitary meditation practice is only a piece of our day, the rest of the day is meditation in action, with our eyes open. She summarises that our job is to go out into the world and help humanity, connecting with different manifestations of spirit and helping to relieve suffering.