Out of the Mouth of Babes
As Anjali lay in bed, she thought about Swami’s birthday, which was coming soon, and what would be the nicest gift to give Him, [the one] who held the entire world in His hands. Even though she was thousands of miles away from Him, she could feel His love all around her. She reflected over how tirelessly Swami took care of everyone, yet the people never showed any gratitude. “I wonder how patient I’d be if I were in His place,” she thought aloud.
The moonlight was streaming into her bedroom window, and the world outside was asleep and quiet. As she gazed outside, a bright lonely star high up in the sky caught her eye. “Is that You, Swami?” she asked the star. “Are You up there watching over us?” She sighed and said, “Poor Swami, He must be so tired trying to teach people to behave themselves.” Anjali gazed at the star once more. All of a sudden, she felt herself being drawn into the star like a magnet….it was pulling her in. She felt herself land on something as soft and fragrant as a rose petal, and as she looked around she could see the earth at a distance. She realized to her amazement that she was sitting on the palm of Baba’s hand. She looked up and stared right into Baba’s beautiful smiling face. Baba had taken a huge form surrounded by a brilliant aura of love and was now bending over her whispering something—”I will show you the world through My eyes. You will understand the truth behind everything.”
Anjali looked back at the lovely earth far at a distance. Suddenly she got a jolt, and then felt an ocean of love and waves pouring forth from her and embracing scenes that passed before her eyes. “Swami, the earth looks beautiful. I can see everything with love and compassion.”
“Yes. If only man would understand how lucky he is to take human birth, he would treat his fellow beings with the same love that you now feel, for the love that you now feel radiates from Me and its light envelops the entire world to ultimately flow back to Me.”
Anjali thought about this for a minute. Then she asked, “My parents tell me ‘do this’ and ‘do that’, and they get tired after a while. But You teach the whole world, Swami. Don’t You ever get tired?”
“No, My eyes are always on My children, day and night and every second. I keep watch over all of you. I have come to make man understand the truth, that he is God and that he is born on the earth for the purpose of realizing this. Besides, all of them down there provide me with much entertainment,” He said with a laugh. “But, Swami, don’t You ever have to punish anyone?” queried Anjali. Then His face grew serious. “I do not punish anyone. Through man’s own wrongdoings he will receive retribution, and through his good deeds he earns merit. My love and grace pour forth. It is up to man to earn them through merit or reject them through demerit. Some seek my guidance and listen to me…others don’t,” He ended with a sigh.
Anjali sat quiet for a while, digesting all of this information. Then she asked hopefully, “May be if You shouted at them, or spoke louder, then they would listen, wouldn’t they?” “Well, they can hear two voices: Mine and their egos’. They can hear My voice coming from their hearts, but many choose to listen to the voice of their ego instead,” Swami replied.
“What is ‘ego’, Baba?”
“How shall I explain it to you, My innocent child? Let’s see… ego is when people think to themselves ‘I am the best’, ‘I know everything’, and ‘I am right and others are all wrong’. It is when God tells you to do one thing and you do the opposite because you think you know better. Ego makes man selfish and greedy.” Swami pointed to a war scene back on the earth. “Look at the way they are fighting. Each side thinks that it is right and refuses to listen to the other when their opinions differ. They immediately begin to fight, as if fighting will solve all of their problems. Many die and sorrow descends on all sides,” said Baba sadly.
Anjali watched the horrible scene for a minute, then noticed something. “Why is there a grey cloud around the war, Swami?” “Well, when many egos clash, the scene is enveloped in a grey aura,” replied Swami. Anjali noticed something else and pointed it out. “Look at those pretty cows grazing in the pasture over there, Swami. They have a pink cloud around them.”
“Do you know why? Pink is the color of eternal love. The few who are surrounded by pink understand My message and are closer to Divinity. Animals follow their dharma [right action] and do not need to be taught how to behave. The only trouble is teaching man the lessons of life,” explained Swami.
Anjali pondered over this. Then she asked, “Swami, do you love some people more than others?” “No, little one, I love all of you equally. You see, I separated Myself from Myself in order to have someone to love and someone to love Me. But humans have forgotten to love God”, replied Swami.
Swami looked so sad that Anjali felt doleful as well, and she hastened to reassure Him. She stood up on His palm and hugged His thumb. “I love You very much, Swami.”
Love shone in Swami’s eyes with the glow of a million stars as He looked at her. “Yes, I know, Anjali. That is why I am talking with you. Man has to become as small and pure-hearted as a child like you and listen to Me. Then he will learn to love both God and his fellow beings.” At this point, try as she might Anjali could not stop a large yawn from escaping her.
“You must be sleepy, My child, I shall send you home now,” said Swami, gently stroking the little girl’s hair.
“But, Swami, you must be even more tired than I am. Why don’t You take a nap, and I watch the world for You?” replied Anjali.
“Little one, your parents will miss you. But perhaps someday I’ll be able to close My eyes and sleep while you keep watch on the world for Me. That would be a lovely birthday gift,” said Swami, smiling sweetly.
Anjali readied herself to go home. Then she turned around and asked, “Swami, I just have one more question. When You look at me do I have a grey or pink cloud?”
“My precious, you are neither grey nor pink. You are far beyond the colors that your eyes can perceive. In truth, you are Me and I am you”
Gita: Out of the Mouth of Babes
The wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita has inspired countless seekers across generations. Its teachings are profound, timeless, and capable of touching hearts regardless of age. The title Out of the Mouth of Babes beautifully reminds us that spiritual wisdom is not limited to scholars, saints, or elders. Sometimes, the purest expressions of truth emerge from children whose hearts remain untouched by worldly complications. Their innocence, sincerity, and natural faith often reflect the very essence of the teachings found in the Gita.
When we think of Out of the Mouth of Babes , we are reminded of the simple yet powerful observations children make about life. They often see unity where adults see division, love where others see conflict, and hope where others see obstacles. The Bhagavad Gita teaches that the Divine resides in every being and that true wisdom comes from recognizing this universal presence. Children, in their natural state, often demonstrate this understanding effortlessly. Their ability to forgive quickly, love unconditionally, and trust wholeheartedly mirrors the spiritual ideals presented in the sacred scripture.
The message of Out of the Mouth of Babes also encourages adults to listen carefully to the younger generation. While knowledge gained through experience is valuable, there is a special kind of wisdom that comes from purity of heart. Children ask questions that challenge assumptions and reveal deeper truths. Their curiosity reflects the spirit of Arjuna, who questioned Lord Krishna with honesty and sincerity. Through those questions, some of the greatest spiritual teachings were revealed. In the same way, a child’s innocent inquiry can inspire profound reflection and spiritual growth.
One of the central teachings of the Gita is the importance of performing one’s duty without attachment to results. Children naturally demonstrate this principle during play. They become fully absorbed in the activity itself rather than worrying about outcomes. Their focus on the present moment reflects a state of mindfulness that many adults spend years trying to cultivate. Through Out of the Mouth of Babes , we learn that spiritual wisdom often appears in everyday moments when observed through the eyes of innocence.
The Gita also teaches the value of humility. True wisdom is not measured by the amount of information one possesses but by the ability to remain open to learning. Children embody this quality naturally. They approach life with wonder and enthusiasm, eager to discover new things. Their willingness to learn serves as a reminder that spiritual growth requires a similar attitude. The lessons found in Out of the Mouth of Babes inspire us to let go of pride and embrace the simplicity that leads to genuine understanding.
Faith is another important aspect of the Gita’s teachings. Children often possess a natural trust that allows them to believe in goodness, kindness, and divine protection. While adults may become skeptical due to life experiences, the childlike faith reflected in Out of the Mouth of Babes encourages a return to spiritual confidence. Such faith does not ignore challenges but provides strength to face them with courage and optimism. The Gita repeatedly emphasizes surrender to the Divine, and children often demonstrate this trust instinctively.
In many spiritual traditions, great teachers have emphasized becoming childlike in heart. This does not mean being immature but rather retaining qualities such as innocence, honesty, and compassion. The teachings associated with Out of the Mouth of Babes align perfectly with this ideal. Children often speak truth without hidden motives. Their words may be simple, but they frequently carry profound meaning. By paying attention to these moments, we can discover valuable lessons about ourselves and our spiritual journey.
The modern world often encourages competition, material success, and constant activity. Amid these pressures, the simple wisdom found in Out of the Mouth of Babes serves as a refreshing reminder of what truly matters. Love, kindness, gratitude, and faith remain essential values regardless of changing circumstances. Children naturally gravitate toward these qualities, demonstrating them through everyday interactions. Their example encourages adults to reconnect with the spiritual principles that bring lasting peace and fulfillment.
Many spiritual seekers turn to resources such as Devotional India to deepen their understanding of sacred teachings and inspirational stories. Such platforms help preserve timeless wisdom and make it accessible to modern audiences. The lessons reflected in Out of the Mouth of Babes resonate strongly within devotional traditions because they highlight the purity and sincerity that lie at the heart of spiritual practice.
The Gita teaches that wisdom can come from unexpected sources. Sometimes a child’s simple statement can illuminate a truth that scholars have spent years studying. The message of Out of the Mouth of Babes reminds us to remain attentive to these moments of grace. By listening with an open heart, we may discover insights that transform our understanding of life, faith, and our relationship with the Divine.
As seekers continue their spiritual journey, resources like Devotional India provide inspiration and guidance rooted in timeless values. The examples of innocence and truth reflected in Out of the Mouth of Babes encourage individuals to cultivate humility, compassion, and faith. These qualities help bridge the gap between knowledge and wisdom, allowing spiritual teachings to become a living reality.
Ultimately, the enduring lesson of Out of the Mouth of Babes is that divine wisdom is not confined to age, education, or status. It can emerge through the voice of a child, a simple act of kindness, or a sincere question asked from the heart. By embracing the innocence and openness symbolized in this message, we draw closer to the truths taught in the Bhagavad Gita. Through reflection, devotion, and guidance from sources such as Devotional India , seekers can continue to discover the beauty and depth of spiritual wisdom in every stage of life. Devotional India remains a valuable reminder that timeless truths often shine brightest through simplicity, purity, and love.
-The Super‑Emperor