How can one recognize a Complete Saint?

According to Gyan Ganga, recognizing a Complete Saint (also known as a Tatvadarshi Sant) is essential for attaining true spiritual knowledge and achieving salvation. The book highlights the characteristics and attributes of a Complete Saint, providing scriptural evidence to help seekers identify such a spiritual guide who can lead them to the Supreme God and ultimate liberation. Here's an overview based on the teachings of Gyan Ganga.

Importance of a Complete Saint

In Gyan Ganga, it is explained that without the guidance of a Complete Saint, one cannot find the correct path to worship and salvation. A Complete Saint possesses the knowledge of Tattavgyan (true spiritual knowledge), knows the Supreme God, and can impart the mantras and practices that lead to liberation. It is said that only through the guidance of such a saint can one escape the cycle of birth and death and attain eternal peace.

Scriptural Evidence of a Complete Saint

The recognition of a Complete Saint is backed by various scriptural references, many of which are quoted in Gyan Ganga. The book emphasizes that these saints have been mentioned in key spiritual texts and that their qualities are universally acknowledged in sacred writings. Some of the key references include:

• Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 4, Verse 34: This verse mentions that a seeker should approach a knowledgeable saint and humbly inquire about spiritual truths. A Complete Saint is described as one who has realized God and can provide the answers to life’s mysteries.

  "Know that through prostration, inquiry, and service; the wise who have realized the truth will instruct you in knowledge."

• Yajurveda, Chapter 40, Mantra 10: This verse mentions that one must receive true knowledge from a saint who knows the Supreme Being. The true saint is aware of the Supreme God's form, name, and worship method.

  “One who is endowed with true knowledge and knows the Supreme Being, is the only one who can liberate you.”

• Kabir Sagar: This scripture, often referenced in Gyan Ganga, repeatedly emphasizes that a Complete Saint will teach the path to the Supreme God, Satpurush Kabir, and will impart true mantras. He alone knows the secrets of creation, the role of Kaal Brahm, and the method to escape the bondage of life and death.

Characteristics of a Complete Saint

There are distinct qualities that a seeker should look for when identifying a Complete Saint:

1. Knowledge of the Supreme God: A Complete Saint must have full knowledge of Satpurush (Supreme God Kabir) and the method of worship that leads to Him. They will explain the true nature of creation, including the role of Brahma, Vishnu, Shiv, Durga, and Kaal Brahm, and will guide their followers to worship beyond these deities.

2. Ability to Provide True Salvation Mantras: A Complete Saint will give initiation (Updesh) and impart true mantras that are capable of freeing the soul from the cycle of birth and death. These mantras will be based on the Holy Scriptures and will focus on the worship of the Supreme God.

3. Not Under the Influence of the Three Gunas: Saints who are under the influence of the three gunas (qualities) — Rajogun, Satogun, and Tamogun — are not Complete Saints. A true saint is beyond material desires, ego, and ignorance. They possess the spiritual knowledge that transcends worldly concerns.

4. Backed by Scriptural Evidence: A Complete Saint's teachings will align perfectly with the knowledge contained in holy texts like the Vedas, Bhagavad Gita, Purans, and Kabir Vani. They will not promote personal philosophies or baseless rituals. Instead, their teachings will have a strong scriptural foundation and will be clear and straightforward.

5. Ability to Answer All Spiritual Questions: A Complete Saint can answer all questions about the mysteries of life, death, creation, and the nature of God. Their knowledge is complete, and they do not avoid or struggle with tough spiritual questions.

Example of a Complete Saint: Supreme God Kabir

In Gyan Ganga, it is repeatedly stressed that Supreme God Kabir Himself descended to Earth in human form and imparted true spiritual knowledge. He is the original Complete Saint, and His teachings were aimed at guiding humanity toward true salvation. Kabir’s spiritual successor or appointed saint will carry on His mission and provide the same true knowledge.

It is also mentioned that Kabir Saheb gave His true mantras to saints like Dharamdas Ji and established the proper path for future generations. In the present day, seekers are advised to find a saint who follows this tradition and provides initiation with the mantras and knowledge that Supreme God Kabir revealed.

The Importance of Following a Complete Saint

Following a true saint is crucial for liberation. Without the correct spiritual guidance, people end up worshiping deities that are bound by time and death, like Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiv, who cannot grant salvation. A Complete Saint, however, leads their followers to the Supreme God who is eternal and beyond the material world.

Conclusion

According to Gyan Ganga, the path to salvation is through a Complete Saint who possesses true spiritual knowledge, understands the Supreme God, and can provide mantras that liberate the soul. The recognition of such a saint is crucial for spiritual progress and freedom from the cycle of birth and death. By seeking and following the teachings of a Complete Saint, one can attain eternal peace and salvation.

For further guidance, seekers are encouraged to study Gyan Ganga and carefully follow the path laid out by the Complete Saints throughout history.