Neem Karoli Baba, also affectionately known as Maharaj-ji, was one of the most revered Hindu saints of the 20th century. He gained immense popularity for his uncomplicated yet profound teachings that revolved around the concepts of love, devotion, service, and surrender to God. Although he led a very spiritual life, his teachings were surprisingly very practical, urging people to lead their lives with humility, faith, and kindness.His impact was not limited to India but reached out to seekers from all over the world. Many famous personalities, including Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg, were drawn to his teachings and even visited his ashram. His well-known ashram, Kainchi Dham, is located in Uttarakhand. Yet, despite his increasing popularity worldwide, Neem Karoli Baba continued to be very down-to-earth and even emphasised the importance of ego-surrender and living life according to the divine flow.
Today’s quote, “It is very difficult to know exactly what good should come out of a particular situation. To attempt to manipulate circumstances so your idea of good can come about, is to let the ego play God-and that, as you know, can and does backfire,” is widely attributed to Neem Karoli Baba’s teachings, which were largely preserved and shared through the recollections of his devotees and disciples.
Kainchi Dham, Uttarkhand (Image Credit: Saloni Pathak)
What this quote conveys
This quote speaks of the boundaries of human understanding. We think we understand what is “good” for us, whether it is success in our chosen career, a certain relationship, or a certain outcome. But the reality of life is that it is much more complicated than what we want in the short term. What appears to be a setback in the moment may later prove to be a blessing in disguise, protecting us or steering us in a different direction that is ultimately better. Neem Karoli Baba encourages us that our definition of “good” is limited and clouded by our own short-sighted thinking.The second half of this quote speaks of the ego. When we attempt to manipulate circumstances to fit our own definition of success or happiness, we are, in essence, attempting to control the universe. This is what he means by “letting the ego play God.” This kind of manipulation will inevitably lead to stress, frustration, and often negative outcomes. When we fight too hard against the natural flow of life, we may find that things blow back in our faces because we are working from a place of limited vision rather than faith.
How this teaching can help in daily life
This teaching can be very helpful for people in daily life:
- It teaches us to remain patient during difficult situations, understanding that we may not yet see the bigger picture.
- It helps reduce anxiety by reminding us that not everything needs to be controlled or micromanaged.
- It promotes humility, enabling us to recognise that our knowledge is not complete.
- It helps avoid rash decisions based on ego, pride, or fear.
- It develops faith and perseverance, enabling us to believe that the results of life may have a greater purpose than we have yet discerned.
The truth in Neem Karoli Baba’s words is a reminder of the strength of surrender and humility. In a world where control, ambition, and success are the ideals, his words are a reminder to stop and think. Not all things need to be molded in a way that fulfills us, nor is all that we face an error. Sometimes what we see as “bad” is simply a part of a story that we have yet to understand.In letting go of the need to control everything and in recognising the subtle dance of ego, we allow ourselves to receive the deeper peace and wisdom that is available to us. In trusting the larger plan of life, we may find that what happens is far wiser than anything we might have planned.