The Vision and Mission of Siddha Samaj: A Path to Universal Peace and Brotherhood
The Siddha Samaj, founded by His Holiness Swami Sivananda Paramahamsa, is built on a vision of a world where individuals live in harmony and freedom akin to the life of birds. Birds, unhindered by societal constraints, move freely and live peacefully until they descend to the ground. Similarly, Swamiji envisioned a society where people live without bondage, guided by self-will and mutual affection, moving freely and independently.
Vision: A World Free from Bondage
Swamiji’s vision for the world is inspired by the natural freedom and equality observed in birds. To achieve this, individuals must uphold the activities of their minds, avoiding the downward pull of negative emotions and thoughts. This upward motion (urdhvagathi) symbolizes a constant state of spiritual elevation and awareness, necessary for true freedom and peace.
Mission: Fostering Peace and World Welfare
The Siddha Samaj was founded to address the lack of peace and harmony in the world, caused by Raghadwesha (love and hatred). Swamiji observed that these negative emotions lead to various misconceptions and conflicts, resulting in the downward course (adhogathi) of breath, causing suffering and death. Through immense effort and personal suffering, Swamiji discovered the upward course (urdhvagathi) of Jeeva, a path to liberation and salvation, which he called Siddha Vidya. The mission of Siddha Samaj is to propagate this knowledge, helping individuals achieve liberation and, consequently, world peace and welfare.
Aims and Functions: World Welfare and Peace
The primary aim of Siddha Samaj is to promote world welfare and peace, achievable only in a society free from fear and corruption. The world’s current state of unrest, driven by selfish desires and possessiveness, contrasts sharply with the peaceful existence of birds, who live without such attachments. The remedy lies in controlling the Prana (life force) through practices like Pranayama and Siddha Vidya, leading to the upward flow of life force and achieving a state of equality and fraternity.
Swamiji’s teachings align with those of great spiritual leaders like Buddha, Christ, and Mohammed, and the sacred texts of Vedas, Upanishads, Bible, and Quran. Siddha Samaj serves as a foundation for practicing these teachings, aiming to achieve Moksha (salvation) and Supreme Bliss, and thus fostering an egalitarian society free from fear and bribery.
Samaj Dharma: Charity and Universal Brotherhood
Siddha Samaj embodies the principles of Dharma (charity), existing as a free, independent society where property is common and privacy is minimized. This communal living, devoid of economic disparity, aims to solve various societal problems including those related to food, housing, education, and caste. The Samaj advocates for a life of high morale and discipline, promoting vegetarianism, abstinence from intoxicants, and simple living.
The Samaj fosters universal brotherhood, treating all members as children of one Mother, eliminating familial distinctions and promoting equal ownership of property. The assets of the Samaj belong to all its members, existing as a model of collective living and common ownership.
Practical Solutions and Daily Discipline
To achieve its goals, the Samaj maintains strict discipline and daily routines, dedicating significant time to prayer and spiritual practices. This disciplined lifestyle, free from superstitions and unnecessary rituals, ensures that members lead lives in accordance with nature and spiritual principles. The Samaj also runs a residential school (Padasala) to educate its children, ensuring that future generations uphold these ideals.
A Sanctuary for the World
Siddha Samaj stands as a sanctuary for the suffering masses, offering protection and a way of life that mirrors the freedom and peace of birds. By practicing Siddha Vidya, individuals can attain the upward flow of life force, leading to a natural and harmonious way of living. This practice is seen as the solution to the world's problems, promoting universal welfare and peace.
Commitment to Service and Brotherhood
The Samaj is committed to serving humanity, feeding the hungry, and providing for the needy. Visitors are welcomed and fed, and the Samaj publishes low-priced literature to spread its teachings. Members are expected to lead lives of charity, optimism, and cheerfulness, always ready to help others and promote universal brotherhood.
In conclusion, the Siddha Samaj, guided by the teachings of His Holiness Swami Sivananda Paramahamsa, stands as a beacon of peace, equality, and spiritual elevation. Its vision and mission are rooted in fostering a world free from bondage, promoting universal brotherhood, and achieving world welfare and peace through the practice of Siddha Vidya. The Samaj continues to inspire and guide individuals towards a life of harmony, freedom, and Supreme Bliss.