23rd January, 1937

Talk 339.

With regard to Siva Visishtadvaita, (i.e., Saiva Siddhanta), Sri Bhagavan said: Garudoham bhavana `I am Garuda' - conception does not make a garuda of a man. All the same the poisonous effects of snake-bite are cured. Similarly with Sivoham bhavana (I-am-Siva) conception also. One is not transformed into Siva, but the ruinous effects of the ego are put an end to. Or the person retains his individuality but remains pure , i.e., fit for constituting a part of the body of Siva. Becoming so he can enjoy the Supreme Bliss. That is liberation - say the Saiva Siddhantis. This simply betrays the love of their individuality and is in no way the true experience of liberation.