The Mystery Series topic “The Enigma of Peace” Discourses by Swami Swaroopananda ji on Aug 27, 2025.
Summarized by Brni. Jyoti Chaitanya ji
The Enigma of Peace
Peace, the ever-elusive goal for which the world has struggled for millennia. That which ironically, even those who create wars and insight riots are also ultimately seeking. Then why does it yet remain an enigma to us all? And why does it seem that the more fervent our efforts are at finding peace, is the more likely we are to go to pieces instead? Swami Swaroopanandaji elucidates that, it is because we are unable to crystallize in our minds, the correct method for approaching and attaining this evasive prize. So, what is the method? Swamiji revealed :
- First, you must will it into being! उद्धरेत्आत्मनात्मानम् (BG 6.5) – “Lift yourself, by yourself!”
- Once you begin rising, be consistent, never backstep :नआत्मानंअवसादयेत्
- Along the way, stop underestimating your abilities: no self-condemnation! आत्मैवरिपुरात्मनः Only when you think it’s impossible, it becomes impossible. Destroy such self-annihilating behaviors because: “I can’t” + “but I still want” = Inner conflict.
- Finally, remember what you have, instead of what you THINK you don’t. By this, harness the power of gratitude to make the mind strong, alert and vigilant. In this way, your mind becomes your own best friend : आत्मैव ह्यात्मनो बन्धुः
In Summary, realize now, that the agitation you suffer is of your own creation. Recognize the source and ask yourself, “Is it worth trading my peace for?” The sources are usually 4-fold :
- Desire 2- Attachment 3 – Clinging to My-ness 4- A bruised ego
In this way, block out the “noise” created by desire and its effects, and come to discover that in the quietude of the resultant peace, you do not merely become silent, but you become silence itself.
In Conclusion, Swamiji left us with 3 practice-points for this week:
- Note down how many times you use the word “I can’t”
- Observe the atmosphere of your mind in those moments
- Practice 5 minutes of pranayamah (watching the breath) daily this week.