Those who don't believe in spiritual gurus are rascals: Madras High Court judge
India Today
Madras High Court Justice GR Swaminathan called those who do not believe in spiritual gurus or the power of God 'rascals, fools and barbarians' at a public event.
Madras High Court Justice GR Swaminathan has courted a fresh controversy as he asserted that those who do not believe in the concept of spiritual gurus as a part of God are “rascals, fools and barbarians”.
Addressing a public event by a spiritual organisation in Tamil Nadu, the judge said, “In Tamil Nadu, some people call themselves ‘rationalists’. They call us rascals, fools and barbarians because we see the Guru as a form of God. I say that those who say so are rascals, fools and barbarians.”
Justice Swaminathan was recently at the centre of a major row after he directed that a traditional lamp be lit at the Deepathoon (a stone pillar) near a historic dargah in Thiruparankundram, in addition to the usual temple locations. The state objected and sparked a massive row, and an impeachment motion was subsequently moved against him by over 100 MPs. The motion accused him of bias, lack of impartiality, and acting contrary to the secular functioning of the judiciary.
At the event, the judge further said, “I have four more years left in service. I feel I should step up and act more courageously.”
Justice Swaminathan also spoke about the role of spiritual guidance during difficult times, asserting that courage and support can come through the grace of a Guru.
Referring to his interactions with spiritual leaders, he said he had recently been in contact with a yogi near Tenkasi and discussed the concept of a spiritual “aura” that, according to him, could help devotees overcome personal weaknesses when they come into close proximity with spiritual masters.
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