Introduction to the Gospel
The gospel is the good news about the person, Muktinath. Human nature often longs for a life without strife and conflict. Many theologies and philosophies twist this desire to suggest that true peace and happiness are marks of receiving blessings from God. However, the peace promised by God is often misunderstood as a life without conflict, referred to as ‘nimmadi’ in Tamil.
The Pursuit of Peace
Various theologies propose that the highest value from God is happiness. Although I do not represent the overall view of Indians, one of the aims in life here is to attain ‘nimmadi,’ meaning the absence of strife, conflict, pain, and sorrow. Most human beings prefer a tension-free life, but there is always a subtle anxiety that someone or something will rob this peace, prompting everyone to take precautions to safeguard their interests.
Understanding ‘Nimmadi’ in Different Worldviews
In the Hindu worldview, ‘nimmadi’ is often attributed to punya (merit) along with the grace of God. The lack of it is frequently blamed on karma, time (kala), or even God. My bhakti in the Lord helps me understand that in a fallen world, there is no peace without conflict and challenges. The relative ‘nimmadi’ I experience is the inner work of the Holy Spirit, helping me accept earthly realities and unload them onto the Lord.
Inner Transformation through Bhakti
My bhakti motivates me to bring others to the oasis of peace I have found. It prevents the pessimism of ‘maya’ from overcoming me and keeps me from being carried away by life’s currents like a dead fish. My sinful nature keeps me humble, reminding me that any achievements or good things in life result from God’s grace, not my own karma or punya. This gospel helps me take responsibility for my failures and miseries and see that ‘everything works out for everyone’s good.’
The Role of ‘Nimmadi’ in Personal Growth
The lack of ‘nimmadi’ prompts me to ask, “What do you want me to learn from this?” rather than blame others. The Holy Spirit’s inner work allows me to enjoy the oasis’s coolness without worrying about the remaining desert journey. Bhakti does not support the belief that we are entitled to a pleasant, safe, and happy life. Instead, it celebrates all the goodness in life and reminds us not to take it for granted.
Realizing the Presence of God
Bhakti teaches that God has already provided answers through various means, leading us to abide in His peace. This peace is not the absence of strife but the assurance of God’s presence. Frustration, anxiety, and questions arise from pain and suffering caused by oneself (adyatmika), by others (atibowtika), and allowed by God (adidaivika).
Dealing with Pain and Suffering
When pain and suffering are self-inflicted, I mend my ways and accept personal responsibility. If they come from others, I seek remedies, reconciliation, and restoration. If all efforts fail, I accept that God has allowed it and ask, “What do you want me to learn from this?”
Conclusion
All bhaktas who walk with the Lord will experience these lessons, even though articulating them in human language is challenging.
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