The power of silence is infinite

SILENCEISreally fascinating. We are quite familiar with the whole day, the nature, animals and birds, and of course human beings. But the deepest of all such experience is the silence of the ultimate mystery of the universe. That mystery does not say a word, it has only language and that is born of silence. Human beings attempt to communicate to that eternal mystery of silence.The best medium for this communication is none other than silence, which is the characteristic of spiritual seekers. Initially it is difficult to comprehend the mystery and then adequately articulating it. Karl Rahner, a German philosopher has rightly said that once man reaches the limit point of articulation, he must begin to listen to the mystery only when he is silent. When one is immersed in silence, one begins to realize the power of silence. Silence is not powerless, helpless and of no consequence. It is a positive force that can transform people from within since it is in silence one meets ones own self authentically. And only an authentic encounter with ones self can lead one on the path of renewal. The best example of this is Mahatma Gandhi in India, who revolted against the Britishers just with silence, and eventually blessed us with independence.Silence has always been an integral part of the spiritual traditions. The Indian religious traditions abound with stories and anecdotes of men and women, who entered into the depths of silence in their genuine quest for enlightenment. There are many sages even now, who in their deep contemplation were lost to themselves; an anthill covers their body, and yet they remain unfazed. Silence is an eloquent testimony to the power of silence in spiritual traditions. The story of Buddha is also captivating in this context. He spent many years in quiet silence and meditation, after which he got the enlightenment. Jesus Christ is said to have spent 40 days in the desert fasting and praying before ! he embar ked on his mission.In essence, silence is the heart of all realities. All growth takes place in the hush of silence. A seed opens itself in the depth of silence, so also a bud blossoms in silent moments. Growth of animals takes place in silent manner, so also the growth of a child. It is silence that as pre-eminent in all forms of life and growth. Hence, silence is the pre-requisite for self-realization.