Dealing with the loss of a loved one
Life is a question without any answers and death is an answer without any questions. Yes, paradoxical it might seem, but this is a reality of each life on earth. Change is the only constant factor in everyone’s life.
Bhagavad Gita teachings guide us and the spiritual philosophy stated does help to deal with the loss of a loved one. In India, Gita Shloka recitation is still a prevalent practice especially during the loss of a loved one. These Shlokas help us understand the reality of soul, life and death.
The soul is eternal and changeless. Thus grieving for its destruction is wrong knowledge, futile and improper.
Weapons cannot cut it, nor can fire burn it; water cannot wet it, nor can wind dry it.
Nainam chhindanti shastraani nainam dahati paavakah
na chainam kledayantyaapo na shoshayati maarutah
The soul is indestructible; it can’t be destroyed by the elements of earth or weapons or by water, fire and air. Therefore it is absolute ignorance to lament for it.
Acchedyo’Yam adaahyo’yam akledyo’shoshya eva cha
nityah sarvagatah sthaanur achalo’yam sanaatanah
The Self is un-manifest, unthinkable and unchangeable. Therefore, knowing it to be as such, you should not grieve.
Avyakto’Yam achintyo’yam avikaaryo’yam uchyate
tasmaad evam viditwainam naanushochitum arhasi
Granting that the Self is born again and again whenever a body comes into being perpetually birth and death, even then, O Mighty Arjuna, you should not grieve. Death is the inexorable law by nature.
Atha chainam nityajaatam nityam vaa manyase mritam
tathaapi twam mahaabaaho nainam shochitum arhasi
Death is surely unavoidable. Those who are born are bound to face death. Hence you should not mourn over a preordained occurrence.
Jaatasya hi dhruvo mrityur dhruvam janma mritasya cha
tasmaad aparihaarye’rthe natwam shochitum arhasi
Death is a temporary emancipation. Karma and the law of justice determine if your present body and environment have served their purpose, or when you are exhausted by suffering to endure the burden of current physical existence death occurs.
To help us cope with the loss of a loved one Smt Hansaji shares some practical insights on how to deal with the loss of a loved. Watch the video for details.