The wandering masters

Siddhas are often described as wanderers on the path of love. However, their physical journeys are nothing compared to their spiritual ones.

ABOUT two years ago, I wrote about Nadi astrology and the Siddha sages’ predictions for me (see Akashic Energy at www.superqigong.com/articlesmore.asp?id=131). You will enjoy reading today’s article better if you read this previous posting first.

Since the Siddha had written that I was one of them, my Nadi astrologer had reported this to his guru when he returned to India. The guru then sent his greetings to me and indicated that there were more messages for me.

Recently, I went to see my Nadi astrologer Guru Ramesh again since I thought it was about time I found out what the further messages for me were. This time I was surprised because Guru Ramesh kissed my hand in respect. When I asked why he did that, he replied that since he had read my Nadi leaves, he knew who I was.

The Siddhas

Siddha means “one who is accomplished” and refers to enlightened masters who have spiritually perfected themselves through subjugating their egos, meditation, pranayama (breathing techniques), and rightful living. They acquire wisdom, knowledge, and supernatural abilities, which include the ability to heal. Their service is for the well-being of all humanity.

I find much similarity between the Siddhas and the Sufis, who are also people on the spiritual path of love, wisdom, and enlightenment. Both are steeped in mysticism, and are often misunderstood, and sometimes said to be mad! I now have five Sufi masters guiding me, and I know a lot of fascinating Sufi stories. However, the Siddhas preceded the Sufis by several thousand years. Their story began more than 5,000 years ago. Certainly they have more stories to tell.

In Hindu mythology, Siddhas were said to have lived in Siddhashram, in the holy lands of the Himalayas, where many sadhus, sages, and yogis lived.

Nowadays, it is the Siddhas of South India who are more well known. They are called Siddhars or Cittars in Tamil Nadu. Their lineage continues to this day, though they are more known for the practice of Siddha Medicine rather than their spirituality. However, Siddha sages do exist, but most are hidden. Their popularity will mushroom as more discover their amazing predictions written in the Nadi leaves.

In the southern tradition, there were 18 principal Siddhas. Of these, Sage Agasthiyar was the first, and is also believed to be the father of Siddha Medicine. It is also he who communicates with me through his writings on the Nadi leaves.

My other Siddha guide is Sage Bogar, also a master of Siddha Medicine, astrology, astral travel, exercise, and cosmic energy. It is therefore not surprising that I am a medical doctor delving in alternative/complementary medicine, qigong exercises, and energy healing.

Advice from Sage Agasthiyar

May I remind you that whatever is written here was written on the Nadi leaves by Sage Agasthiyar thousands of years ago.

Sage Agasthiyar said that he and the other Siddha sages will continue to bless and guide me. They have tuned my chakras and empowered me. Secrets, miracles, and “new things” will be revealed to me. I am to strengthen my faith as a Muslim through prayers and good deeds, and to be a noble ambassador of my religion.

Even though we are not of the same faith, our duties are the same. We both serve humanity in many ways. It is this that brought us together.

Through the guidance of Sage Bogar, I will be exposed to various healing methods, and will teach others.

There are other gurus and teachers waiting to guide me, including those from other religions. (You may be surprised to know that among my spiritual advisers is a local Evangelist Bishop who said that he was directed by God to guide me. I accept advice from all wise and sincere men and women.)

But what stunned me most was when he specifically mentioned that I should visit the ashram of Jegathguru Paranjothiar Mahan in Thirumurthi Hills, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, before more spiritual secrets will be revealed to me. Among my non-Muslims teachers, he is closest to me. Guruji Mahan was described as a master who teaches about knowing and loving God, and spreading happiness, gladness, and peace among humanity. Indeed, his usual greeting is “Santhosam” (gladness).

Although Guruji Mahan is not a Muslim, preferring to be known as a universal child of God, his teaching about God is similar to the Oneness (tauhid) believed by Muslims, so I am comfortable with his teachings. I believe Guruji Mahan is a living Siddha sage.

Guruji Mahan has always treated me as his spiritual son, even though he is only a few years older than I am. We have known each other for about 11 years, and many times he has invited me to visit his ashram. I never seemed to have the time, and besides, I was able to meet him often because he came here quite regularly. But Sage Agasthiyar said although Guruji would have waited for me until whenever I am ready, the disciple should visit the Guru for the spiritual doors to open wide. He said that Guruji likes me very much and that he will empower me.

I will visit him soon. You can know more about him at www.universalpeacefoundation.org.

Sage Agasthiyar continued that I am to teach through my speeches and my writings, something that I am already doing now. He also warned me that some will reject what I say (but then even the prophets were rejected!).

He also taught me an exercise to fine-tune my spiritual reception so that one day I can see the past, the present, and the future. If Allah wills, it will happen.

Siddhas are often described as wanderers on the path of love. However, their physical journeys are nothing compared to their journeys into the secret chambers of their hearts, where the lover and the beloved (GOD) meet.

The Sufis also walk the same path, of finding the beloved, and yearning to be one with him (in purpose, not in form). The Siddhas preceded Islam, and I love and honour them the same way as I love and honour my Sufi masters.

From the Sufi and Siddha teachings, let me share with you that the inner journey is the greater path, for it is here that realities are experienced and understood. It is a difficult journey wrought with challenges of the ego, pride, anger, envy, greed, lust, and many more human weaknesses. When these are subdued, then finally, the wanderer only wanders outwardly, for once he has found the beloved in his heart, he stays “home” there.

The outward journey and the physical forms are necessary training and often illusions to the truth of our existence, and our purpose in life.

And remember this – the one who is in love with God, will love all mankind. To love the most compassionate, merciful and just God also means to be compassionate, merciful, and just to our fellow human beings, and to all creation. That is the essence of spirituality, of whatever tradition, faith, or religion.

My wanderings

As predicted by the Nadi leaves, in the last few years, I have been busy traveling with the Buddhist Amitabha group and the Malaysian religious leaders.

In addition to these, I traveled to Brunei, Macau, Taiwan, and Japan to give health talks, consultations, or visit health supplement manufacturing facilities. I also went to Italy, France, Bulgaria, and China for training in aesthetic surgical techniques, lasers, and electro-therapy.

While the Siddhas of olden days wander on land preaching love and spirituality, I am criss-crossing the continents on jet-planes, preaching and doing many other things!

The Siddhas are also guardians of possibly the oldest organised healing system – Siddha Medicine. When I do have the time, I will meet the Siddha physicians and learn from them the secrets of this ancient healing system.

Dr Amir Farid Isahak is a medical specialist who practises holistic, aesthetic and anti-ageing medicine. He is a qigong master and founder of SuperQigong. For further information, e-mail [e-mail]. The views expressed are those of the writer and readers are advised to always consult expert advice before undertaking any changes to their lifestyles. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.