Initiation in This Dark Age

A Selection from The Path of the Masters

In this Kal Yuga, the Dark or ‘Iron’ Age, the ills of life upon this planet have greatly multiplied. Hence, the mercy and loving sympathy of Sat Purush, the great Father, has led him to meet the willing-minded more than halfway. Now practically every person who feels inclined toward the Satguru and wishes to follow his path is accepted by him. To reach that momentous decision is the one thing of paramount importance in all one’s life. What is the result? Many initiates, entering the path half-heartedly and but ill-prepared, naturally fall by the wayside when assailed by severe temptation. But what is the harm? Some good has been done. The precious seed has been lodged in their minds and their souls. Sooner or later they all must return to the path. … In the meantime they have been greatly helped in their upward struggles. This is done out of great mercy and loving-kindness of the Satguru himself and the Supreme One.

The main point is that each individual who gets initiation, after ages of pain and struggle, has at last come to the decision to place his destiny in the hands of the Guru, and of his own free will and accord has asked for initiation. The final liberation of that soul is absolutely assured. Nothing in the universe can possibly defeat that end. It is only a question of a little time. What does it matter if that soul does stumble frequently before he learns to run alone?

One more significant point must not be overlooked. The critic has no right to demand perfection in the character and conduct of every initiate. … The important point is that if they do stumble and fall, they fall with their faces towards the light.