Keeping Secrets -

Sakhicharan's recent post here in Srivas Angan made me think about the idea of keeping confidential topics of bhajan a secret from certain people. There are probably a few reasons for keeping some topics a secret; to avoid confusing the neophyte, to counter false propaganda. Yet, keeping too much a secret would not allow interested parties entry into the beauty of the theology.

Some things are customarily kept secret, like public mention of the actual diksa mantras, although if one searched hard enough the syllables that comprise the mantras can be discovered. Simple knowledge of the syllables is not enough, since one needs diksa into the mantras, and siksa on the use of the mantras. Why then are they kept a secret? I suppose one could argue to keep the neophyte from 'jumping over' the guru and just chanting the mantras, although this would demonstrate a basic lack of understanding of sastra.

Other topics, such as one's siddha-deha identity are only revealed to those very close to the sadhika, and even then done very cautiously. (I think.. I can't say I know this for a fact) Why are these topics kept so close, even amongst those deeply sympathetic to our own feelings?

Secrets can also be a good thing, driving the neophyte to desire to delve deeper into the philosophy, and informing one that there are mysteries yet to be understood. Madhava let me know that the maps of the Gutika of Siddha Baba are confidential to those who have received siddha-deha, and I have to admit, this really intrigued and encouraged me. (Im not sure why.. I'm petty like that)

Maybe others can share some thoughts on the topic?

I thaught that was the idea of this Srivasangan forum. Certain things are secret between guru and sisya, but aside from that the caution regarding revealing confidetial topics to all and sundry on the net, well? It's probably well advised for the avoidance of desputatious elements. The worst thing when enjoying Hari katha is someone spoiling the atmosphere with tarka.

This was definitely the idea here. That's why the membership here is restricted.

Actually, I was trying to go after people's thoughts on why some things are kept secret. I'm more interested in what people think of the act of keeping things hidden, more than what can and can not be revealed...

This is an interesting topic, I'll try and get back to this tomorrow, if only electricity permits me to. Sheesh, I need to get a good battery setup the next time over!

Bump, because I also think this is an interesting topic, and would like to hear others thoughts on it. (although I should recognize that I may be the only one here that finds this topic interesting!)