By Balakhilya and Ruben
5
77 ratings
The podcast currently has 95 episodes available.
'For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?' (Mark 8:36)
Highlights:
Recorded on July 13, 2022.
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In the Netflix docu-series Surviving Death, a ‘non-believer’ film-maker explores the possibility that consciousness continues beyond life as we know it.
The documentary is intriguing and gives an important glimpse of the truth. But there are also a lot of misunderstandings, often based on speculation. In today’s episode we look closer at the real facts of death and dying, through the light of the Vedic teachings.
We emphasize how one should have a practical approach toward spirituality, and not get caught up focusing on extraordinary experiences. And we stress the need for expert guidance from spiritual teachers. The discussion extends to karma, the subtle laws governing behaviour, and making conscious choices based on future consequences.
Highlights:
Recorded on May 16, 2022.
https://linktr.ee/breakingtrail
Lord Chaitanya appeared 500 years ago in present India, and just like Jesus came to spread love for God. Today we discuss his life and teachings; an example of how we can all achieve spiritual perfection and happiness.
You’ll hear us discuss the difficulties we face in the modern times of wide spread materialism and irreligion. For these times, Chaitanya made it clear that chanting God’s names, known as mantras in the yoga tradition, is the highest worship.
We humbly ask all of our listeners to understand that the teachings of Chaitanya are applicable beyond any particular belief system. As we point out, religion simply means doing the will of the Supreme Lord.
Because ultimately, it is the desire of Lord Chaitanya, and ourselves, that you come closer to the heart of Jesus. By knowing, loving, and serving God.
With this episode, we conclude our 16-part series on ‘The Heart of Jesus’. We hope you have learnt something of value, and ask you to please write us with any questions or requests for further discussion/explanation.
Highlights:
Recorded on February 26, 2024.
https://linktr.ee/breakingtrail
"Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.” - Matthew 5:10-12
Today we delve into the stark contrast between the darkness and light in the world. We share the extraordinary accounts of Jesus’ apostles, who held on to their faith despite the most horrendous persecutions. And you’ll hear us differentiate between their genuine faith and its polar opposite of fanaticism.
On that note, we didn’t make this episode to delve into the cruelty of how they were treated. Rather, we wanted to show how these apostles are the most wonderful examples of the power of faith, and the power of love. Examples that show how light always conquers darkness.
Highlights:
Recorded on February 19, 2024.
https://linktr.ee/breakingtrail
“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves” - Matthew 7:15
Today we delve into the essence of spiritual teachings, namely the importance of finding a true spiritual teacher. And how you practically can tell the real ones from the false ones.
We stress the significance of assessing the genuineness of spiritual teachers based on their actions and teachings. We discuss the role of a spiritual master as a connection to the Supreme Person, and underscore the necessity of surrendering to a living spiritual teacher in the pursuit of spiritual growth.
The bottom line is; if we don’t even try to find a spiritual teacher, we will be like a rudderless boat in the ocean of life. However, if we are not careful in this endeavour, we will not make it to a safe harbour.
Highlights:
Recorded on February 5, 2024.
https://linktr.ee/breakingtrail
Reincarnation (and thus, karma) was taught by Jesus as well as the early fathers of Christianity. When that concept was removed, several strange concepts were put into place - that are still being taught. For example, the eternal damnation that follows if you don’t take the one and only chance you have in this lifetime, the creation of the soul at the time of conception, and the idea that our suffering is not really due to our past actions - but due to the original sin committed by Adam and Eve.
In this episode of Breaking Trail, we discuss the concepts of karma and reincarnation and their relationship with Christian teachings. We explore the idea that actions influence future outcomes, supporting this with Paul’s words from Galatians 6:7-9, "A man reaps what he sows," which serves as a cornerstone for understanding spiritual laws of cause and effect.
We examine the historical decision by Justinian in 550 AD to remove reincarnation from Christian doctrine, a decision that introduced major theological shifts and inconsistencies. Life is really a continuous journey of spiritual evolution, which aligns with teachings from both the Vedas and early Christian texts.
Highlights:
Recorded on January 22, 2024.
https://linktr.ee/breakingtrail
Today we delve into the Vedic story of Bilva Mangala, who was deeply attached to a prostitute by the name Chintamani. You’ll hear how, after a sudden turn of events, he accepted her as his spiritual master.
We discuss the importance of redirecting ones materialistic passions towards spiritual pursuits, and touch upon the Vedic concept of intelligence for attaining a true perspective. Balakhilya also shares biblical narratives comparing Mary Magdalene and Chintamani. We discuss themes of mercy and redemption with references like Jesus' response to an accused adulteress, “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her”. At the end, you’ll hear us respond to a listener’s question about chanting silently in the mind.
This episode not only explores spiritual dimensions but also humanizes the path of spiritual growth, showing that enlightenment and help can emerge from the most unexpected sources.
Highlights:
Recorded on January 17, 2024.
https://linktr.ee/breakingtrail
What is real prayer, and what has that got to do with meditation? In fact, Jesus was meditating constantly; immersed in service to the Supreme Lord.
Today, we explore the concept of uncovering one’s love for the Supreme Lord and the process of cultivating it through meditation. We discuss the purpose of the religious processes; namely to enhance individuals' devotion to God, beyond sectarian differences. We also read from and expand upon Jesus’ famous ‘Lord's Prayer’:
‘Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be your name,your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.Give us today our daily bread.And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.’ (Matthew 6)
Highlights:
Recorded on January 12, 2024.
https://linktr.ee/breakingtrail
Learn the basics of mantra meditation
We see two extremes in today’s world. On one hand we see states ruled by some religious sect which are often characterised by violence, fanaticism, and intolerance.
On the other we have highly secular states that outwardly seem more peaceful, but where the erosion of the spiritual foundation means there is no longer any moral standard for the people to follow.
In today’s talk you’ll hear how America was originally founded trying to go beyond these two extremes. Its founders were Christians who had broken off from the Church of England, wanting to establish a state based on spiritual principles but without fanaticism.
Unfortunately, just recently, a new Speaker of the House was elected who believes that the Bible is the only way and the only truth. Not only has this nothing to do with real religion, but this fanatic spirit is the root cause of the societal divide and hatred we see today.
Highlights:
Recorded on December 11, 2023.
https://linktr.ee/breakingtrail
The podcast currently has 95 episodes available.
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