Dakshinamurti

Maharshi: . . . which is the real power? Is it to increase prosperity or bring about peace? That which results in peace is the highest perfection.

Devotee: But peope in Europe and America would not appreciate such an attitude and would desire a display of powers and instructions by lectures, etc.

Maharshi: Lectures may entertain individuals for a few hours without improving them. Silence on the other hand is permanent and benefits the whole of humanity.

Devotee: But silence is not understood.

Maharshi: It does not matter. By silence, eloquence is meant. Oral lectures are not so eloquent as silence. Silence is unceasing eloquence. The Primal Master, Dakshinamurti, is the ideal. He taught his Rishi discipes by silence.

Devotee: But then there were disciples for Him. It was all right. Now it is different. They must be sought after and helped.

Maharshi: That is a sign of ignorance. The power which created you has created the world. If it can take care of you, it can similarly take care of the world also.

[Talks with Sri Ramana Maharshi]