The tides in the Ganges

The tides in the Ganges

Ramakrishna Paramhansa (to the devotees): "The ebb-tide and flood-tide are indeed amazing. But notice one thing. Near the sea you see ebb-tide and flood-tide in a river, but far away from the sea the river flows in one direction only. What does this mean? Try to apply its significance to your spiritual life. Those who live very near God feel within them the currents of bhakti, bhava, and the like. In the case of a few―the Isvarakotis, for instance―one sees even mahabhava and prema.

(To the Students) "What is the explanation of the ebb-tide and flood-tide?"

Student: "According to Western astronomy, they are due to the attraction of the sun and the moon."

In order to explain it, the student drew figures on the earth and began to show the Master the movement of the earth, the sun, and the moon.

The Master looked at the figures for a minute and said: "Stop, please! It gives me a headache."

Presently the tide came up the Ganges. They heard the sound of the rushing water. The tide struck the bank of the river and flowed toward the north. Sri Ramakrishna looked at it intently and exclaimed like a child: "Look at that boat! I wonder what is going to happen to it."

MASTER: "Have you noticed Naran's nature? He can mix with all, old and young. One cannot do this without a special power. Besides, all love him. Is he really artless?"

Student: "I think so."

MASTER: "I understand that he goes to your place. Is that so?"

Student: "Yes, sir. He has visited me once or twice."

MASTER: "Will you give him a rupee? Or shall I ask Kāli about it?"

Student: "Very well, sir. I shall give him the money."

MASTER: "That's fine. It is good to help those who yearn for God. Thus one makes good use of one's money. What will you gain by spending everything on your family?"

MASTER SAID : The busybody doesn't see a thing even when it is very near him. A man went to a friend's house to light the charcoal for his smoke, though all the time he had a lighted lantern in his hand. Another man looked everywhere for his towel. Finally he discovered that it had been on his shoulder all the time."

Om Namah Shivay.