Christmas

Hislop: The crucifixion of Christ, the metal figure of Christ on the cross that Swami created; the metal, when strongly magnified, appears to be more or less covered with small bumps. What are they?

Sai: They are blood, knots of blood. The body was in bad condition. It had been hurt and injured over the entire body. At death, the blood came to a sudden stop, and the bumps are clots of blood.

Hislop: Swami, on the photo enlargements of the statue, it also looks as if a sort of slice off the nose had been removed.

Sai: The nose is whole. That is a heavy bloodstain. When the face itself is enlarged, it is seen as a dead face. Swami made the metal image of the body after its death.

Hislop: Because of pictures being around, and the story and pictures being in books, the little figure on the cross is becoming quite famous. What should be done with it? Should it be placed in the new Sathya Sai Museum?

Sai: For the museum, Swami will make a big image of Christ. The small one was for you. You keep it.

Sai: What do you make of Christmas?

Hislop: I was never really interested in Christianity, but I have paid more attention since Swami made the crucifix.

Sai: I mean, what does Christmas represent?

Hislop: The birth of Christ is represented.

Sai: The 25th is not the birth. It was on the 24th, near midnight.

Hislop: Not long ago, I found out something very interesting about the Christian religion. The early Christian fathers of the Eastern Church knew something of which modern Christians have no idea. The early Fathers taught that one should constantly say, ‘Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me.’ There is constant repetition of Christ’s name until the name goes into the heart where the repetition continues without cessation. Along with the repetition of the name, the form of Christ is visualized in the mind. I learned of this through reading an old book, The Way of the Pilgrim, translated from the Russian.

Sai: As time goes on, the significant factors of the spiritual path are lost. The Christian mystics took up the repetition of the name of Christ starting about 19 years after his death. As time goes on, human nature comes to the front and the divine is put aside and forgotten. That which was known of the spiritual path after the time of Rama was no longer there at the time of Krishna. And that which Krishna taught was gone when Sai came. It is the same with the Buddhists, the Moslems and the Jains.

Source: Conversations with Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba

Christmas

The joyful season of Christmas brings warmth, kindness, and spiritual happiness to people across the world. Families gather together, homes shine with beautiful lights, and hearts become filled with peace during this sacred celebration. The festival reminds everyone about compassion, generosity, and the importance of sharing love with others. Children eagerly wait for gifts and celebrations, while elders enjoy spending meaningful time with family members. The atmosphere during Christmas feels magical because every street, church, and home reflects joy and devotion in a unique way.

People prepare for this holy festival weeks in advance by decorating trees, singing carols, and arranging delicious meals for loved ones. Markets become colorful with stars, bells, candles, and festive decorations. The spirit of togetherness becomes stronger as communities participate in prayers and cultural events. During Christmas, many individuals also help the poor and needy by donating food, clothes, and gifts. Such acts of kindness make the festival more meaningful and remind society about humanity and compassion. The positive energy created during Christmas inspires people to live with greater understanding and forgiveness.

The celebration also carries deep spiritual significance for believers who visit churches and participate in midnight prayers. Hymns and devotional songs create a peaceful environment filled with faith and gratitude. Many readers of Devotional India enjoy learning about traditions connected with this sacred season because it highlights values that unite humanity. The message of Christmas teaches people to embrace humility, patience, and unconditional love in daily life. These teachings continue to inspire millions and encourage them to strengthen relationships with family and society.

Across different countries, traditions may vary, but the essence of the festival always remains the same. Some families prepare traditional cakes and sweets, while others organize gatherings with music and dance. The cheerful exchange of greetings and blessings creates unforgettable memories for everyone. During Christmas, children often perform plays and songs that spread happiness in schools and communities. Readers who follow Devotional India appreciate such cultural celebrations because they promote harmony and spiritual awareness. The beautiful spirit of Christmas also encourages people to leave behind negativity and begin a fresh chapter filled with hope.

Another special aspect of the festival is the way it connects generations together. Grandparents share stories and traditions with younger family members, creating emotional bonds and preserving cultural values. Homes become places of laughter, prayer, and celebration as families spend quality time with one another. Articles published by Devotional India often describe how festivals strengthen emotional and spiritual unity within society. The peaceful message of Christmas continues to inspire people to respect different cultures and spread kindness wherever they go.

In today’s fast-moving world, festivals that encourage love and humanity hold great importance. The celebration of Christmas reminds everyone that happiness becomes meaningful when shared with others. People decorate homes, exchange blessings, and pray for a better future filled with peace and prosperity. The inspiring stories and traditions highlighted by Devotional India help readers understand the deeper emotional and spiritual values connected with this joyful occasion. Through faith, unity, and compassion, Christmas continues to shine as a festival that brings hope and joy to countless hearts around the world.

-What is Dharma