Swami Answers Shri Anil's Questions

1. If a bad person decides to become good, but dies before doing good, does he go to hell or heaven?

[An online question brought to Swami by Śrī Anil]

Swami replied: God appreciates the fact that at least that decision to become good was made by the person before dying. Such a person will be granted a human rebirth for implementing his decision. Alternatively, God may stop the sudden death of the person and extend the person’s life, so that he may implement his decision in that life itself. But one thing is clear, the person cannot go to heaven, for just the theoretical decision. Earning merit (puṇyam) by practical good actions is essential.

2. Is our willingness to forgive others a sign that God has forgiven us?

[An online question brought to Swami by Śrī Anil.]

Swami replied: Certainly, if you do not forgive others for their sins, based on the same rule established by you, God too will punish you for your sins.

3. What are the special responsibilities expected of a child of God and a member of God’s family?

[An online question brought to Swami by Śrī Anil.]

Swami replied: The soul who aspires of the grace of God is expected to put forth efforts to bring awareness to people in society about what God likes (good deeds) and what He dislikes (sinful deeds). The soul should also take the responsibility of bringing about peace among all human beings.

4. If heaven has gates, does it mean that heaven has borders?

[An online question brought to Swami by Śrī Anil.]

Swami replied: Who told you that heaven is infinite, having no boundaries?

5. What do we learn from the suffering of Jesus Christ?

[An online question brought to Swami by Śrī Anil.]

Swami replied: Every statement that came from the mouth of Jesus is a precious gem. He preached about having faith in God, leading a worldly life based on justice and most importantly, He preached about love and peace.

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