98
Aptavani-4
And when it does, they are called swayam-buddha (spontaneous
Self-realization). Even those who are swayam-buddha, would
had to have met a Gnani in their past life. Nothing can happen
without a nimit. One must have upadaan (spiritual readiness) as
well as a nimit.
‘Upadaan nu naam lai ae je tajey nimit;
‘One who abandons the nimit, emphasizing one’s own
readiness exclusively;
Paame nahi siddhattva ne, rahe bhrantima sthita.’
Does not attain liberation and remains established in
illusion.’
~ Shrimad Rajchandra
Therefore, you need a nimit first. Even if one’s upadaan
is not awakened, Gnan will awaken it. But without a nimit,
nothing can be done.
Questioner: What if you have a hundred percent
conviction that the experience of the Self does not ever happen
through a nimit (another person)?
Dadashri: Then you will never experience the Self. You
may have tremendous upadaan, but if you cannot find a nimit,
then you will never experience the Self. The nimit is vital!
Questioner: So, we have to accept that that experience
of the Self can only happen through a nimit?
Dadashri: Here is how it is. Everyone must keep his
upadaan awakened, and many do. But what can they do
without a nimit? There is no other way.
Questioner: Does one meet a nimit through his merit
karma (punya) or through his purusharth (effort)?
Dadashri: Through his merit karma (punya). Otherwise,
even if he does purusharth of running from one upashraya
(place where monks stay for a short time) to another for infinite