In the Vedic tradition, welcoming a sadhu or sant into one's home was not merely etiquette—it was a sacred opportunity for purification. Scriptures describe that even the poorest householder becomes blessed when he receives a saint with sincerity, even if all he can offer is a glass of water, a seat, or simply folded hands. The presence of a saint was considered equal to receiving the Lord’s own messenger: one who brings wisdom, peace, and a reminder of life’s ultimate purpose.
However, in the modern world—especially among the materially affluent—there is a growing hesitation to meet saints or allow them into their homes. This shift raises an important question: Why are people, despite their wealth and comfort, distancing themselves from the very source of spiritual nourishment?
Erosion of Trust: When Saints Lose Their Standard
One of the primary reasons lies in the unfortunate behavior of a few who appear as saints but do not uphold saintly qualities.
Some individuals, wearing saffron robes, have become entangled in:
cravings for material comforts
consumption of non-sattvic food
excessive dependence on donations
pursuit of followers, fame, or political influence
This has created a sense of doubt and even fear among house holders. When a wealthy person sees such examples, a thought arises: “Is this saint here to give blessings, or to take something from me?”
Such incidents, although limited, leave a deep impression, leading many to close their doors to all saints, genuine or not.
The Rise of Materialism: Forgotten Value of Association
Another major reason is the lifestyle shift among the financially well-off. Today’s affluent society is more absorbed in:
maintaining properties
managing businesses and investments
pursuing luxury and entertainment
competing for social status
In this busyness, the importance of spiritual association—once a natural part of life—gets pushed aside. Spiritual visitors are seen as “irrelevant interruptions,” and not as bearers of wisdom. Many rich households even put signs like:
“Do Not Enter”
“Beware of Dog”
“Trespassers Will Be Prosecuted”
This reflects an unseen wall around their lives—physical, social, and emotional—where even saintly people feel unwelcome.
Scriptural Perspective: A House Without Saints Becomes Spiritually Empty
Vedic scriptures strongly warn that a house where no saints visit becomes spiritually barren. Externally it may appear prosperous—filled with comfort, wealth, and luxuries—but inwardly it becomes:
restless
envious
fearful
disconnected from divine grace
Such a home is compared to a tree filled with poisonous snakes—appearing beautiful from the outside but dangerous within.
The Transformative Presence of Vaisnava Saints
True vairagi and Vaisnava sannyasis do not travel for personal gain. They travel to uplift society. Their presence carries:
purity
compassion
transcendental knowledge
peace and clarity
the remembrance of God
Just by the touch of their lotus feet, a place becomes a pilgrimage site. Their words can dissolve lifetimes of confusion, and their association reminds householders of the higher purpose of human life.
The Way Forward: Integrity and Openness From Both Sides
To restore the lost culture, two things must happen:
1. Saints must maintain their integrity
A saint must be:
simple and detached
disciplined in conduct
free from greed
focused on service, not prestige
an example of purity
When saints embody the teachings, trust naturally returns.
2. Householders must revive humility and openness
Wealth should not become a barrier to spiritual life. A rich person benefits even more from the association of saints because material abundance often brings hidden anxieties and attachments.
Opening the door to a saint is equivalent to opening the heart to divine wisdom.
The hesitation of materially affluent people to meet saints is a reflection of modern priorities and occasional misuse of spiritual identity. Yet the timeless truth remains: the association of saints is invaluable, regardless of one’s wealth or status. When both saints maintain purity and householders show humility, a powerful spiritual culture is restored—one that enriches both lives and society.
Welcoming a saint is not an act of
charity; it is an act of receiving grace. And in that grace, even a wealthy person discovers the peace that money can never buy.
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