Illuminating Essays / by Ma-Mahajnan; Asokananda Prosad Ma-Mahajnan's "Illuminating Essays", a collection of thirteen marvelous essays, is a
significant anthology. An introductory essay on 'End in
View' attracts one and all towards the Mother's originality of thought. The Mother has said the last word with significant force on spiritual
realization. Is not 'Realizing Novelty after One's Heart' deeply significant? 'Religion and Realization' is living truth, in view of its title. The opening sentence makes one catch ones breath.––'If his religious sense remains undeveloped, how can you bring its realization home to him !' The Orb of Fire', to that we bow our head. The ice thaws in
ordinary heat. So what happens in this case ? Next are placed, against the background of the world and society : 'Flawless Performance of Duty––Ideal Householder', 'How to Keep Yourself Healthy', 'Conflict & Resolution' and 'Cold
war'. Regarding the question of marvelous findings of essential character we have 'Dream-Self-Truth', 'A
miracle', ‘Not a Miracle’, 'Devotions at the Math (Monastery), 'Human Welfare', 'Devotions––Various Forms to Suit Individual Temperament'. Each of these titles has found a place in the list according to its special characteristics. The last title added is 'The Aspects of the Mother'. This too is a kind of 'Conscious Trance'. This is in answer to a very ordinary question from a certain disciple––a blessed sacrament––a spontaneous expression of the Mother's intimate realization. Being divided, the matter in three parts, makes us realize its immensity. So why should we feel bewildered in keeping pace with it.