Distinguishing a fake spiritual guru from a genuine one is challenging. Like many on the spiritual path, I’ve had my share of bitter experiences. Perhaps, even hypnosis!

To alert you to such dangers, let me share an anecdote.

My Weakness

Hailing from a traditional Indian family, I’ve seen many revere the robes even more than those wearing them! My parents, who were no exception to this deep-rooted conditioning, never missed an opportunity to visit every spiritual guru in town.

Maybe because I saw my parents respect monks, I wanted to renounce and become one. Having said that, I genuinely intended to dedicate my life to social service.

Despite wanting to be a monk, I remained distrustful of those in robes. In fact, when I discovered the value and power of mantras, I became even more skeptical of spiritual gurus and leaders.

Nevertheless, I had one weakness — my curiosity!

A Mesmerizing Idol

Once, my parents visited a famous spiritual leader’s temple. Since I was around, I accompanied them to that place. When I got there, I loved the serene ambiance. Further, the exotic-looking idols almost mesmerized me.

The spiritual adepts/monks in that Ashram appeared happy with sweet, welcoming smiles. I was delighted to be there and even made a mental note to visit that Ashram temple frequently.

Breaking my thoughts, a spiritual adept said, “You should see our special idol. We recommend all our new visitors to spend time meditating on it.”

“What’s so special about it?” I asked him.

Without revealing much, he said, “You will know when you focus.”

My parents were smart enough to stay away, but this curious cat couldn’t do the same. I desperately wanted to know what was special about that idol. Therefore, I began focusing intensely on it.

Perhaps, Hypnosis?

Speaking the raw truth, I suddenly felt like I was losing control. Strangely, I even felt a tinge of respect for their spiritual guru. I didn’t know what was wrong, but something definitely was off. Perhaps, I was being hypnotized?

Anyway, during those times, I had an issue with meditation. If I focused intensely, I experienced severe pain between my brows. That pain kicked in, and I lost focus. Suddenly, I gained awareness of reality.

The moment I regained control of my mind, I was in a state of shock. I was so shaken and restless that my parents began to worry. Now, that Ashram temple no longer felt like paradise. Without any delay, I rushed out of there.

When I rethink that experience, it scares me at times. Something tells me divine grace saved me from hypnosis that day!

Hypnosis Alert!

I’m a spiritual adept who has had many awe-inspiring experiences. My life story tells me that spirituality is genuine and mantras are powerful.

However, like science, mantras are a double-edged sword. These can help you reform your life, but these can also be used for hypnosis.

Chant these mantras at home for your well-being, but beware of fake spiritual gurus and avoid their fancy-looking Ashrams.

Just because a spiritual leader speaks confidently or responds smartly doesn’t mean they are genuine. For all you know, they may be misusing mantras.

Please don’t risk your lives in the lure of guru, initiation, etc. While your spiritual evolution is essential for your joy, your safety is far more critical.

Love,
Sri Devi Om