Wisdom of the Sages

Life’s most painful moments often carry the seeds of our deepest transformation. In this powerful episode, author and scholar Simon Haas joins Wisdom of the Sages to illuminate how the Bhagavad Gita frames personal crisis—not as a detour from the spiritual path, but as an integral part of it. Known as Vishad Yoga, the yoga of crisis, this ancient wisdom reveals how despair can become a gateway to awakening. Through the lens of Arjuna’s breakdown on the battlefield, Simon explains the four universal symptoms of a dark night of the soul: •⁠  ⁠Intense suffering tied to time—fear of the future, lamentation for the past, and confusion in the present •⁠  ⁠A powerful urge to withdraw from life or even give up •⁠  ⁠Confrontation with parts of ourselves we’d rather not see •⁠  ⁠A feeling of complete helplessness, where even our best tools no longer work Rather than avoiding these moments, Simon shows us how to recognize them as sacred rites of passage—times when the soul is being reshaped by divine design. Learn how to navigate the inner battlefield with the guidance of yoga philosophy, and why the teachings of Krishna to Arjuna offer a timeless blueprint for turning breakdown into breakthrough. Key Highlights: •⁠  ⁠Why suffering often precedes spiritual evolution •⁠  ⁠How to listen, surrender, and evolve when everything falls apart •⁠  ⁠Why the world’s greatest spiritual texts were born from suffering •⁠  ⁠Practical tools from the Gita for navigating emotional crisis This episode is a profound companion for anyone going through grief, loss, disillusionment, or inner change. Let the Gita be your guide through the shadows. 🎧 Tune in now and walk the path of inner transformation with clarity and purpose. 🌱 Subscribe for daily insights from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam and Bhagavad Gītā. #DarkNightOfTheSoul #BhagavadGitaWisdom #VishadYoga #BhaktiWisdom #YogaThroughSuffering #SpiritualAwakening #WisdomOfTheSages #YogaPhilosophy #SimonHaas #TransformationThroughCrisis ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

For some of us, it seems like the mind will never let us go. In this raw and deeply insightful Q&A episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha confront the complex intersection of trauma, depression, and the spiritual path. They unpack how the Bhakti tradition doesn’t promise a quick fix for erasing psychological suffering—but it radically reframes it. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gītā and Śrīmad Bhāgavatam, they explain how the soul carries the subtle mind into the next life, how karma shapes mental struggles, and how deep devotional practice can burn through even the heaviest mental burdens. Bhakti offers a transformative lens—a way to see the mind not as the self, but as an apparatus we carry on the soul’s long journey. For anyone dealing with mental health challenges, or supporting those who are, this episode offers real spiritual tools to face it, live with it, and grow beyond it. Key Highlights: •⁠  ⁠Why Bhakti might not quickly “fix” depression—but it can transform how we live with it •⁠  ⁠How trauma and psychological pain may carry over from previous lifetimes •⁠  ⁠The yogic technique that instantly reveals you are not your mind •⁠  ⁠Raghunath shares candid reflections on fatherhood, heartbreak, and spiritual surrender 🎧 Dive into a conversation that’s equal parts psychology and soul. 🌟 Subscribe for daily spiritual insights and join a global community living the path of Bhakti. MentalHealthAndSpirituality #BhaktiYoga #DepressionAndBhakti #KarmaAndTheMind #YouAreNotYourMind #WisdomOfTheSages #SrimadBhagavatam #BhagavadGita #HealingThroughBhakti #SpiritualTransformation ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

60,000 angry men attack a saint—and get reduced to ashes by their own ignorance – this epic tale from the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam becomes the backdrop for a powerful conversation on radical forgiveness, spiritual transformation, and the illusiory nature of enemies. Raghunath and Kaustubha unpack ancient wisdom through the lens of Lao Tzu, Martin Luther King Jr., and Nelson Mandela to reveal one unshakable truth: real sages see no enemies, only souls. From corrupt olive oil empires to broken relationships, from ego battles to misused power—even from within religious life—this episode goes deep into how spiritual maturity always means rising above. 🎧 Episode Highlights: •⁠  ⁠Why transformation matters more than happiness on the path of yoga •⁠  ⁠Kapiladeva’s silent strength and what it teaches about divine vision •⁠  ⁠Bhakti’s answer to cancel culture: love those who don’t love you back •⁠  ⁠“Destroy your enemies… by making them your friends.” 🕉️ This is not just philosophy—it’s a revolution of the heart. Tap into the mindset of the sage and upgrade your spiritual operating system. 🌿 Don’t forget to subscribe and share! #BhaktiWisdom #ForgivenessIsFreedom #SrimadBhagavatam #SageLife #YogaWisdom #Kapiladeva #BhaktiPodcast #SpiritualGrowth Join Kaustubha Das at Harvard Divinity School for Divine Revelation in Three Phases – Brahman, Paramatma & Bhagavan Friday, March 28, 9-10 am ET https://www.happyjackyoga.com/bhakti-yoga-conference-schedule SB 9.8.7-13 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

Anxiety, envy, fantasy, or gratitude—whatever you feed in the mind will take root and expand. That’s not just yogic philosophy, it’s neuroscience.  The wisdom of the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam and the story of Śaubhari Muni reveal how subtle desires, left unchecked, can grow into powerful distractions that completely reroute the course of life. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha explore how our thoughts shape our inner algorithm, and how Bhakti offers a path back to clarity, intention, and true spiritual direction. Key Highlights: •⁠  ⁠“The seed you water is the seed that will grow.” – Thích Nhất Hạnh •⁠  ⁠How to retrain your mental algorithm like a spiritual social media feed •⁠  ⁠Why material desires don’t die out—they intensify •⁠  ⁠Bhakti is the addiction that liberates •⁠  ⁠The path back from confusion isn’t judgment—it’s intention 📿 Tune in for a timely reminder that where your attention goes, your life follows. 🎧 Subscribe now for daily inspiration rooted in timeless wisdom. #BhaktiYoga #MindTraining #SrimadBhagavatam #SpiritualGrowth #YogicWisdom #TrainYourMind Join Kaustubha Das at Harvard Divinity School for Divine Revelation in Three Phases – Brahman, Paramatma & Bhagavan Friday, March 28, 9-10 am ET https://www.happyjackyoga.com/bhakti-yoga-conference-schedule SB 9.6.49-55 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

There’s a deep existential void that often accompanies material success. When Hollywood A-listers and rock legends echo the same ancient truths as the yogic sages of old, it’s giving them a listen. In this episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha dissect a powerful quote from Brad Pitt—spoken at the peak of his fame—revealing the desperation hidden behind luxury, the spiritual failures of sensual indulgence, and the timeless Bhakti wisdom found in the story of the mystic sage Śaubharī Muni. Key Highlights: •⁠  ⁠Why achieving the pinnacle of material success often leads to loneliness and inner collapse •⁠  ⁠The simple but profound shift from self-mastery to spiritual surrender •⁠  ⁠What Bono, Mick Jagger, and a sage meditating underwater all have in common •⁠  ⁠Watching or society descend into Super Bowl rap battle disrespect Discover why Bhakti yoga cuts through the illusion of external success and points us to the only thing that truly satisfies: unmotivated love. 🎧 Tune in, reflect deep, and pivot toward the real treasure. #BradPittQuote #BhaktiWisdom #FameAndEmptiness #MaterialSuccess #SrimadBhagavatam #SpiritualPodcast #WisdomOfTheSages #ModernYogis #MickJagger #Bono #DesireAndDetachment #SaubhariMuni #BhaktiYogaTruths #VedantaForToday SB 9.6.45-48 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

Despite achieving what many spiritual seekers only dream of— intense renunciation, self control and mystic abilities—some yogi’s in the still suffer from fear and emptiness.  In this eye-opening episode, Kaustubha and guest co-host Kishori Gopi explore the downfalls of two great mystic yogis and the deeper message their stories carry: that real transformation lies not in knowledge or austerity, but from the purity of one’s heart. Through the stories of Durvāsā, Saubhari, and the unwavering devotion of Ambarīṣa, we uncover how even the most exalted yogic accomplishments are hollow without love, humility, and inner simplicity. Key Highlights: •⁠  ⁠Why mystic power can increase pride—and suffering •⁠  ⁠How Ambarīṣa’s humility outshines a yogi’s austerity •⁠  ⁠“Simplicity seeks God, purity enjoys Him” — the Thomas à Kempis quote unpacked •⁠  ⁠A Bhāgavatam verse revealing that even Lord Vishnu doesn’t enjoy His own opulence without the love of the devotees Tune in to this illuminating episode to understand what truly moves the heart of God—and why it has little to do with how “spiritually accomplished” we appear. 🌊 Subscribe and join the global bhakti community rediscovering ancient truths for modern life. 🎧 Listen now! #BhaktiYoga #SrimadBhagavatam #MysticYogaVsDevotion #PurityOfHeart #SimplicityAndDevotion #WisdomOfTheSages SB 9.5.27-9.6.44 Join Kaustubha at Harvard Divinity School  Divine Revelation in Three Phases – Brahman, Paramatma & Bhagavan Friday, March 28, 9-10 am ET https://www.happyjackyoga.com/bhakti-yoga-conference-schedule ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

You’re not locked into karma—you’re being trained by it. In this illuminating Q&A episode, Raghunath and Kaustubha reveal how the law of karma is less about punishment and more about cosmic sensitivity training. But the deeper question is: Do you want to stay under karma’s rule, or reconnect with the root of all existence? 🌿 Key Moments & Highlights •⁠  ⁠(Departure): Kaustubha’s sacred farewell from India, chanting mantras to Lord Nṛsiṁhadeva as light streamed over the Ganges •⁠  ⁠The Indra to Indra Gopa principle – how karma reaches from the king of heavens to the microscopic germs •⁠  ⁠the subtle yet transformative distinction between being under the automated system of karma versus being under Krishna’s direct energy.  •⁠  ⁠Why bhakti lifts one above karma (and why that makes Krishna personally invested in the devotee’s treatment) •⁠  ⁠(Privilege): The unexpected spiritual wealth of the widows of Vṛndāvana and how they lit up Vishaka Devi’s heart •⁠  ⁠The power of crossing a spiritual gate with no return—walking into the Himalayas to die in divine remembrance •⁠  ⁠(Real name vs. appearance): Srila Bhaktisiddhānta Saraswati’s insight on how mantra power flows from the heart, not just the syllables •⁠  ⁠The comic-yet-profound exploration of “choosing your privilege” in this life—no matter your status or circumstances Whether you’re wrestling with life’s injustices, seeking clarity on mantra meditation, or feeling the call to go deeper into spiritual practice, this episode invites you to stop asking “what do I deserve?” and start asking “who do I serve?” 🎧 Tune in now and choose your cosmic path. #LawOfKarma #BhaktiYoga #MantraMeditation #Mahamantra #SrimadBhagavatam #SpiritualPrivilege #KrishnaBhakti #Himalayas #WidowsOfVrindavan #SpiritualRetreat #KarmaVsBhakti #QandAEpisode #WisdomOfTheSages #Haridwar #DevotionalLife #IndraGopa #KirtanYoga #SpiritualDeparture ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

Resentment is a silent killer of peace—and it’s one of the biggest obstacles on the spiritual path. In this powerful episode of Wisdom of the Sages, Raghunath and special guest Jiva G dive deep into the spiritual and psychological mechanics of forgiveness. With decades of experience in both Bhakti yoga and 12-step recovery, Jiva brings clarity, compassion, and hard-earned wisdom to one of the most difficult practices in human life: letting go. Drawing from the story of King Ambarīṣa in the Śrīmad Bhāgavatam and real-life experiences of transformation, this conversation explores why forgiveness is not about excusing bad behavior, but about reclaiming your own power and serenity. Key Takeaways: •⁠  ⁠How resentment blocks spiritual growth and poisons our inner world •⁠  ⁠Why self-reflection—not blame—is the first step to emotional freedom •⁠  ⁠How Bhakti and 12-step principles work together to heal deep wounds •⁠  ⁠The difference between forgiveness and reconciliation •⁠  ⁠Why forgiving others is often the key to forgiving ourselves •⁠  ⁠How spiritual community and loving support can help us do what seems impossible •⁠  ⁠Tools and mindsets that can transform lifelong patterns of hurt and shame If you’re carrying pain from the past—or struggling to release judgment toward yourself or others—this episode offers both inspiration and real-world practices to help you move forward with strength, clarity, and grace. 🎧 Tune in now and subscribe for daily teachings that blend Bhakti wisdom with practical transformation. #ForgivenessJourney #LetGoAndGrow #BhaktiYogaWisdom #HealingThroughBhakti #12StepRecovery #SpiritualGrowth #ResentmentRecovery #InnerPeace #WisdomOfTheSages #SelfReflection #KingAmbarisha #SrimadBhagavatam ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

In this eye-opening episode, Raghunath and guest co-host Jiva G dive deep into the hidden roots of addiction, attachment, and self-sabotage through the lens of bhakti. Drawing from the story of Maharaja Ambarish and the transformative insights of the 12 Steps, they explore how true renunciation isn’t about leaving the world behind—it’s about untangling the knots of the heart. Key Highlights: 🔥 Why real renunciation happens within, not just by walking away. 🌀 The surprising link between addiction, resentment, and spiritual stagnation. 🕉️ Devotees may take no offense—but Krishna does. ❤️ How self-forgiveness and surrender unlock the path to real freedom. If you’ve ever felt trapped by your own mind or weighed down by past mistakes, this episode will challenge your perspective and inspire a new way forward. 🔔 Subscribe for daily wisdom and join thousands worldwide on the bhakti journey! 🎧 Tune in now! #LetGoAndSurrender #BhaktiRecovery #WisdomOfTheSages #SrimadBhagavatam SB 9.5.26-27 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages

What happens when a powerful mystic, fueled by arrogance, tries to destroy a humble king—only to be met with kindness? The ancient encounter between Durvasa Muni and King Ambarish reveals a profound yogic truth: the greatest strength lies not in power, but in devotion. Join Raghunath and Kaustubha as they dive deep into this riveting Śrīmad Bhāgavatam tale, exploring the transformative nature of humility, forgiveness, and the real measure of spiritual advancement. Why did King Ambarish fast for an entire year waiting for his offender? What did Durvasa Muni finally realize about true yogic power? And how does this wisdom apply to our own struggles with resentment and misunderstanding? Key Highlights: 🔹 The hidden power of forgiving your worst enemy. 🔹 Why Bhakti transcends the paths of jñāna and mystic yoga. 🔹 The illusion of material success—even on the highest planetary realms. 🔹 How the sincere devotion of one person can transform another’s heart. This episode will challenge everything you thought you knew about strength, tolerance, and the journey to divine love. 🌟 Subscribe for daily wisdom and join thousands worldwide in the practice of Bhakti Yoga. 🎧 Listen now! #Forgiveness #BhaktiYoga #SpiritualPower #WisdomOfTheSages SB 9.5.11-25 ********************************************************************* LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wisdom_of_the_sages