The key objective in Sanaatan Dharma is the achievement of ‘moksha’ or liberation. The fact that liberation is to be achieved implies that we are currently bound with the shackles of desire. It is the ego sense coupled with desire that leads to attachment and aversion and binds the individual soul to this ever-changing world. In order to reach the gates of liberation, we must encounter and become friendly with the four guards who will allow us passage. These four guards are as follows:
- Shanti (peace) – The first guard is peace in the form of serenity of mind and calmness of the heart. This results from the absence of ‘vasanas’ or desires.
- Atma Vichara (self enquiry) – The second guard is self inquiry. It is said that liberation is the fruit of the celestial plant of self enquiry. There are three elements which contribute to self-enquiry: (1) self experience, (2) words of the Guru and (3) words of the scriptures. With these three combined, the process of self enquiry must be conducted on a continuous basis.
- Santosh (contentment) – The third guard is contentment. Contentment means not longing for what you do not possess and also enjoying what you already possess in the right manner. Thus contentment comes from the elimination of desires.
- Satsangh (good association) – The fourth guard is good association. The company of the Guru, sages and holy ones propel us spiritually by their mere presence. From such company arises wisdom on what should be sought and what should be avoided. We must maximise every opportunity to seek their company and spiritual wisdom.
If we become familiar with only one guard, we are automatically taken to the others. It is said that contentment is the best gain, good company the right course, self enquiry is true knowledge and peace is the highest bliss of man. We must remember these four guards and actively endeavour to make their acquaintance.
