Day 50

Description of the Chaotic State

Understanding the Formless Void:

Ráma inquiries about the post-universal dissolution state, often termed as the "formless void." He questions the apparent contradictions of void, absence of light and darkness, and the absence of intellect and living principles.

Explaining the Formless Void:

Sage Vasishtha responds, comparing the chaotic state post-universal dissolution to images carved in bas-relief upon a pillar. The world is intricately situated in the essence of the Supreme Entity, making it non-void. 

The World as Plenitude:

When the plenitude of the world is represented in the essence of God, it cannot be labeled as void. The analogy of a pillar with carved figures illustrates that Brahma, exhibiting the worlds within him, cannot be considered void.

The Duality of Existence and Non-Existence:

Sage Vasishtha introduces the concept that the world contained in Brahma is both something and nothing. The analogy of billows in calm waters portrays the simultaneous existence and non-existence of the world within Brahma.

Apparent vs. Real:

Certain figures marked on trees, mistaken for images, serve as an analogy. Similarly, evanescent figures in the eternal mind are often misunderstood as the real world. The comparison emphasizes the illusory nature of the perceived reality.

Negating the Void:

The term "void" is challenged, stating that it is a false fiction. Something must emerge from something, not from a void nothing. This argument aligns with the principle "ex nihilo nihil fit."

Absence of Darkness:

Sage Vasishtha explains the absence of darkness before creation, highlighting that the divine light of Brahma is not comparable to the light of material luminaries. The eternal light is not obscured by darkness, and its nature is internal perception.

Brahma's Nature:

Brahma, beyond external light and darkness, is likened to a fruit where the inside and outside are identical. The world contained in Brahma is portrayed as full of the spirit of God.

Intellect as a Clearer Sphere:

The analogy of the sphere of intellect being clearer and brighter than air and empty space signifies that the concept of the world in the divine mind is clearer than the visible world we perceive.

Understanding Intellect:

Intellect is compared to the pungency of pepper, perceived only by one who has tasted it. Similarly, the intellect is known in the intellectual sphere by cultivated intelligence.

Description of the Supreme Being:

The transcendental being, smaller than the smallest atom, purer than air, and more tranquil than ether, is introduced. It is devoid of desires, representing the supreme form of infinite intelligence.

Insights into the Supreme Being's Form:

Descriptions of the Supreme Being's form include its manifestation within a Yogi during deep meditation, within the intellect, within various elements, and as the witness of knowledge.

Brahma as Source and Terminus:

The Supreme Being is described as the source and terminus of the triple consciousness—knowable, knower, and knowledge. This description emphasizes the difficulty in attaining this ultimate reality.

The Liberated Mind:

The Yogi's mind, liberated from bodily activities and concentrated in the intellect, is said to resemble the divine mind. It is compared to the immovable body and abides in the fourth state of the soul.

 Insights and Advice for Modern Seekers:

- Contemplation on Illusory Nature: Understand the illusory nature of the perceived reality and contemplate the dual aspects of existence and non-existence.

- Seek Wisdom in Deep Meditation: Embrace deep meditation to discover the true nature of the Supreme Being within oneself.

- Cultivate Spiritual Intelligence: Cultivate spiritual intelligence to perceive the divine light and understand the transcendental nature of the Supreme.

Concluding Advisory for Modern Seekers:

In your spiritual journey, delve into the depths of meditation, contemplate the illusory nature of the world, and cultivate spiritual intelligence. The Supreme Being, smaller than the smallest atom, awaits your discovery within the realms of your own consciousness.

Citations: Book III, Chapter X, Verses 1-53, Yoga-Vasishta Maharamayana.