The message of Raksha Bandhan

The festival of Raksha Bandhan commemorates the pure loving relationship between brothers and sisters. When purity is upheld in any relationship it turns into a power of protection.

Today it is a sad truth that even though brothers vow to protect the honour of their sisters, many women fall prey to the lust of men. It is not possible for a brother to protect his sister all the time. If the brother is younger, physically ill or staying far away how can he protect his sister?

If we think about it - everyone, including males, needs protection in these critical times. Only God is the Supreme Protector who can lead us to safety and security in the true sense.

The tilak applied by sisters on their brothers' forehead after tying the rakhi is a symbol of the soul, which is who we really are. As long as the soul remains true to its innate values and connected to God the Supreme Protector, it remains safe. So let us celebrate this auspicious festival in its true spirit of purity and spiritual love. Let us strengthen our bond with God the Supreme Protector.

Today, it seems to be more commercialized – what with all the different sizes and designs of Rakhis and the greeting cards that we find in the stores. All of our Indian festivals have a reason behind them; all we need to do is use our intellect to appreciate our rich culture.

Raksha Bandhan has a much deeper spiritual explanation. It is a reminder that as souls, we are children of the One Supreme Soul, our Spiritual Father. Its true significance lies in portraying the viceless and pure love between brother and sister. The ‘tilak’ is a symbol of awakening one’s awareness of “Soul-conciousness” – i.e. realization of being a Soul, or divine light energy, and NOT the physical body. It is also a sign of being victorious. Victory here signifies overpowering man’s greatest enemy – the VICES of anger, sex-lust, greed, attachment , ego…… Tying a “rakhi” is a symbol of a bond of chastity or purity in thought, word and deed.

We face difficulties when we come under the influence of the vices and commit wrong actions. No action goes fruitless – good or bad, we will face the consequences. Sweetening of the mouth is symbolic of the victory we will feel when we overcome the vices. God does not ask us for money or elaborate gifts – all he asks is that we give up the vices that are deeply hidden in the ‘pockets of the souls.’ We have to earn our happiness and security – we do not need to be dependent on anyone. At the present time, fear is one the biggest diseases spreading in our world. By staying in soul-consciousness and re-affirming our vow to God, the Almighty, we can bring about a world of purity, peace and prosperity! This is how to truly celebrate Raksha Bandhan.

Brahmakumaris