NOTE BY THE TRANSLATORS
This little book was published in Urdu in
India, where also an English translation was issued.
In the preparation of this translation we have
been fortunate in having the co-operation of the Sadhu himself, and in concert
with him certain alterations have been made with a view to remove obscurities
and give added point and clearness wherever possible. While striving to provide
a careful translation, a certain freedom of expression has been made use of
wherever necessary, at the same time care has been taken to preserve the true
spirit and meaning of the original.
To those who, like ourselves, have had the good
fortune to see the Sadhu at his work in India, the whole atmosphere of the book
is familiar. In true Oriental fashion one has seen him seated on the ground in
the midst of a large number of eager inquirers of both sexes and all classes.
His bearing on such occasions one can never forget. His simplicity and plain
common sense often lay open the very heart of a spiritual problem, and his
quiet humour raises an occasional ripple of amusement, which again subsides
into a feeling of reverence as the deeper significance of his answers makes
itself felt.
The man himself, in his own gracious and
dignified personality, makes an indelible impression on the mind. He becomes
more than a charming memory; he remains as a compelling force in the lives of
many who have sat with him at the Master's feet.
This little book goes out as an emanation from a
mind chastened and refined by experience and prayerful meditation, and chosen
by the Lord of love and mercy to make Him known in life as well as in word.
Arthur Parker
Rebecca J. Parker