SPF For Soul To Shield Individuals From Chaos

Excessive and prolonged exposure to the sun can cause our skin to burn. This is why people use sunscreen as a protective barrier for the skin. Sunscreens come in various strengths, measured as SPF - Sun Protection Factor, which enables us to enjoy the warmth of the sun while shielding ourselves from its harmful effects.


If we think about our human existence, a similar parallel can be drawn. Our soul was given the gift of this human existence for a supreme purpose: to find its way back to its Source, the Creator. Although the physical world is many reflections away from the true reality, it remains a unique and precious opportunity for the soul. It is here, in this human form, that the soul has the chance to experience and reunite with God. However, the physical world also presents many hazards to the soul. Just as unprotected skin can be burned by the sun, the soul, too, can be burned by the many distractions and attractions of the environment in which we find ourselves. These distractions - on the physical, emotional and intellectual levels - draw the soul away from its divine purpose. To safeguard against these distractions and to navigate this world safely so it can make the most of the time it has in this human form, the soul needs a shield, which can be referred to as the " Soul Protection Factor ".


So, what is it that troubles the soul, and how can it be protected? While the body is home to both the soul and God, it is also where the mind resides. The mind, a lover of enjoyment, and ever in pursuit of pleasure and stimulation, lures our attention - the outer expression of the soul - into the distractions of the outer world . Absorbed in satisfying physical needs, emotional desires, and intellectual pursuits, we ignore the spiritual dimension of our lives and wile away the precious time given to us. The key lies in recognising the golden opportunity of this human birth. It offers each of us the opportunity to experience God directly. Once this realisation dawns, we begin seeking ways to connect with God. The first step is spiritual awakening - an inner shift from our dreamlike state of identifying with the body and mind to recognising our true nature as spirit.


Such an awakening becomes possible through the grace and guidance of a spiritual Master. By teaching us the technique of meditation, they help us embark on the inner spiritual journey . In meditation, we withdraw our attention from the distractions of the outer world and focus it within. In the stillness of the inner realms, our soul connects with the light and sound of God. As this connection deepens, the pulls and pains of this world begin to lose their hold on us. We bathe in the sunlight within that is not scorching, but gentle, loving, and calming. With this inner stability, we become oblivious to the ups and downs of life that disturb our peace and keep us from progressing Godward.


Meditation, then, serves as the Soul Protection Factor, shielding our soul from the influences of the outer world that keep it from realising its goal.


Authored by: Sant Rajinder Singh Ji Maharaj