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Re: Axiamatic principle

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Mohan Sagar • March 21, 1998 


My compliments to Sri Dileepan on his lucid statements.

The issue of SriVaishnavam's exclusive devotion to Sriman Narayana has been
quite the point of contention for many non-SriVaishnavas and more
liberalized members of our community, both within and outside this forum. 
I would like to share with these individuals that, at least from my
observation, our following of this vital aspect of our tradition is based
on more than just zealous faith or ethnocentric values.  It seems that the
vast majority of us who adhere to this "axiom" do so as a result of some
deeply held personal experiences that have convinced us of the authenticity
and validity of the teachings of the AzhwArs and AchAryans, and has evoked
in us the desire to strive towards the ideal of utter subservience towards
Sriman Narayana and His adiyArs.

Such personal experiences at times may be clearly tangible for each of us,
and at other time we may not be quite sure what has led us to this faith. 
And, sometimes such experiences may be far too personal to discuss openly. 
But, all of us know, for our AchAryans teach us this, that this level of
dedication is solely the result of Perumal's Grace.

Does this mean that we feel ourselves superior to those who worship the
other Deities?  I think not.  But,  I personally feel that the very fact we
do not see ourselves as the agents of our own religious values, evokes (or
should evoke) in us a sense of humility and thankfulness for the
opportunity to experience this unique set of religious principles, and the
prayer that others will also be given such an opportunity.

dAsan,

Mohan