Share Your Spark
Once upon a time, in a timeless time, long ago- there lived a devout scholar named Bharadvaja who studied the holy Vedas (ancient philosophical and spiritual texts). So intense was his dedication, that he exhausted an entire lifetime learning and contemplating the scriptures. Upon his rebirth, Bharadvaja knew which path he desired to follow and again, exhausted a second lifetime studying, eager to connect with source. During his third lifetime, rumors began to swirl around the community that a wise but secluded sage held the keys to unlock all the secrets of the universe. Only no one had ever seen the sage, as Bharadvaja did nothing but study the holy Vedas. At the end of Bharadvaja’s third lifetime, Shiva appeared at his deathbed. Bharadvaja thinking he has reached enlightenment, excitedly asks Shiva if he has finally broken the cycle of death and rebirth.
Shiva reached down and picked up a pile of dirt and said, “with all the knowledge in the world, you have learned but this much in your first lifetime.” Shiva then picked up another handful of dirt and said, “this, this is what you learned during your second lifetime.” Again, Shiva picked up a third mound of dirt, placed the pile in front of Bharavaja, and said “ this mound of dirt is a representation of all the knowledge you accumulated during this lifetime.” Shiva then motioned to the Himalayas standing tall in the horizon, “Do you see those mountains? Those mountains represent all the knowledge of Vedas, Bharadvaja. It would take thousands of lifetimes over again to master all that is contained within them. You have certainly gained more knowledge than anyone else, but look around you. You are all alone. You have yet to experience the true wisdom of the Vedas. It is through sharing that you’ll awaken to life and overcome death.” Shiva then left and Bharadvaja died that same night.
Upon his fourth rebirth, Bharadvaja not only studied the Vedas, but also became a compassionate educator. He dedicated his life to sharing his grace and joy with others. Upon his deathbed, people came from far and wide to honor their beloved teacher. Shiva also came to pay his respects, as Bharadvaja had learned his lesson and would be freed from the cycle of rebirth, if he so chose. Bharadvaja bowed his head in deep reverence for Shiva, for he now recognized that the true meaning of life was not in the knowing, but in the living and sharing. Bharadvaja fell in love with life and with joy in his heart, he left his body- only to be reborn as one of the greatest sages ever known.
