Both body and mind are responsible for our bondage and liberation. Without the body, one cannot recognize the nature of one’s mind. The life, mind and intelligence become evident only while accompanying the body. Therefore, we must use such a sacred body for the useful purpose of seeing truth. Man is the most sacred of all the animals. To be born as a man is an extraordinary gift. Therefore, man must use this life of his in a purposeful manner. (SSB 1973, p. 173)
Man today is bound by seven types of bondage: 1. Deha (Body); 2. Karma (action); 3.Raga
(attachment); 4. Dvesha (hatred); 5. Ahamkara (ego); 6. Aviveka (foolishness); 7.Ajnana
(ignorance). These are the seven bonds that bind man. (SSS Vol.21, p. 44)
Man is subject to three kinds of bondages in life, bondages derived from the past, those arising in the present and those created for the future. As regards the present one should act on the principle that he should conduct himself towards others in the manner he would like them to behave towards him.
To be concerned only about one’s own happiness or comfort and be indifferent to the happiness and needs of others is a form of selfishness, which creates bondages in the present. Bondages for the future are created by your actions in the present. When you entertain bad thoughts and indulge in wrong actions, they lead to bad consequences in the future. Peace of mind is lost and one is caught up in perpetual worry. The way out of this vicious circle is to turn the mind towards God and refrain from causing harm to others. Contemplation of God and leading a godly life will confer peace and bliss beyond measures. (SSS Vol.20, p. 28)
We are familiar with the pairs of opposites like good and bad, sin and merit, truth and falsehood. The performance of Vaidika Karmas (prescribed religious rites) like Yajnas, Yagas (sacrifical rites) charity and penance, is regarded as Punya Karmas (meritorious actions) While engaged in these acts, if a person is concerned with worldly gains, Ahamkara (egotism) arises. There is the feeling; I am doing these sacred rites. On the other hand, indulging in evil deeds like fraud, cruelty and deceit, man forgets his higher nature and is the oblivious to the consequences of his actions. Involvement in actions, whether good or bad, results in bondage. The chains that bind may be made of gold or of iron, but they are chains all the same. (SSS Vol.17, p. 158)