Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj

In Vachanāmrut Vartāl 13, Bhagwān Swaminarayan explains, “When a ship sails past a mountain of magnetic rock, then all of the iron nails of the ship are drawn towards the magnetic rock. Similarly, when a person does darshan of God’s form with shraddhā, be it the form of a king or the form of a sādhu, his indriyas are drawn towards God.” For this reason, the Gunatit Satpurush is often compared to a magnetic mountain, possessing an extraordinary spiritual aura that naturally attracts seekers.

Wherever Shastri Yagnapurushdasji (Shastriji Maharaj) traveled, devotees would gather in large numbers, captivated by his discourses and divine presence. However, this growing influence became unbearable for those who opposed him, leading them to stir conflicts within the Satsang. Kothāri Gordhanbhāi privately advised Shastriji Maharaj to contain the situation, saying, “Swami, wherever you go, grand assemblies and festivals take place. Many people are drawn to you, which has sparked strong resentment among certain swamis. They cannot tolerate your increasing influence, and I fear they may create great obstacles for you. To maintain harmony, I suggest you limit your teachings and interactions.”

Shastriji Maharaj calmly listened, but his faith remained unshaken. He firmly believed that any influence or divine aura seen in him was solely the work of Bhagwān Swaminarayan. He humbly responded, He humbly responded, “It is difficult for me to travel from village to village to do kathā to devotees, as I am often on the move - sometimes in Gujarat, other times in Sārangpur. Thus, we gather at one place for a day or two to collectively experience the joy of kathā-vārtā, bhajan-bhakti, and the smruti of Bhagwān. If people are drawn in and witness divine aishwarya (divine splendor) and pratāp (spiritual power), that is entirely the grace and doing of Shriji Maharaj. Nevertheless, if you and others doubt my intentions, let next year’s samaiyo (festival) and Vachanāmrut kathā be organized in Vartāl. This will surely help dispel any uncertainties you may hold.”

Hearing this unwavering faith, Kothāri was deeply moved and admitted, “Swami, I have no doubts about you. But those wearing saffron robes have taken an oath to uproot you completely. That is what worries me.” Kothāri’s words reflected his deep love and respect for Shastriji Maharaj, as he genuinely wished to shield him from difficulties.

However, Shastriji Maharaj was not one to retreat in the face of opposition. He confidently assured Kothāri, “If we believe ourselves to be the doers, then we must bear the consequences. But if we understand that Shriji Maharaj alone is the doer, he will never let harm come our way.

Even if hardships arise, we will accept them as Shriji’s purification process - refining us like pure gold. We should never let opposition disturb our inner peace. Moreover, Maharaj has declared: ‘I have attained Bhagwān, and if I fail to guide those who seek my association toward salvation, then what is the value of my knowledge?’ With this in mind, we must never hesitate to glorify the supremacy of Bhagwān, even in the face of resistance.”

Hearing these words, Kothāri Gordhanbhāi stood stunned, deeply admiring Shastriji Maharaj’s unwavering patience and faith. These words about Bhagwān’s doership are etched in stone - guiding how one should stand firm in both worldly matters and spiritual service. If we hold onto this principle, we, too, can remain resolute like an unshakable mountain amidst life’s greatest storms.