Ancient Knowledge from Indian Texts

Day 213 -  The Nature of Consciousness VASISTHA continued: The Lord explained further: Functions of Consciousness Consciousness operates in different forms: as space, as life (jiva), as actions, and as substances. This occurs naturally and effortlessly. Just as all oceans are part of one vast body of water, this consciousness, though described in various ways, is one unified mass. In the body, like a lotus, this consciousness experiences life, like a bee gathering honey. In the universe, all beings—gods, demons, mountains, oceans, and more—exist within this infinite consciousness like eddies in the ocean. The wheel of ignorance, which drives the cycle of life and death, also spins within this cosmic consciousness, powered by its constant energy. Consciousness, in the form of the four-armed Visnu, defeats demons, like a thunderstorm quenching the earth's heat. It takes the forms of Siva and Parvati, Brahma the creator, and many other beings. This consciousness is like a mirror holdi...

Day 212 -  THE LORD continued: Indeed, only that cid-akasa (infinite consciousness), which alone exists even after cosmic dissolution, exists now, devoid of objectivity. The concepts and notions illuminated by consciousness within itself shine as creation, due to the movement of energy within consciousness, just as dreams arise during sleep. It is impossible for an object to exist outside of the omnipresent infinite consciousness. All mountains, the world, the firmament, the self, the jiva, and all elements are nothing but pure consciousness. Before creation, when only this pure consciousness existed, where were these (heaven, etc.)? Space (akasa), supreme space (paramakasam), absolute space (brahmakasam), creation, and consciousness are mere words indicating the same truth. Duality in dreams is illusory, just as the duality in the world's creation is illusory. Objects seem to exist and function in the inner world of consciousness in dreams and the outer world of consciousness when...

Day 211 -  Teaching Imparted by Lord Siva Description of the Lord VASISTHA continued: There is the sacred abode of Lord Siva, known as Kailasa. I lived there for some time, devotedly worshipping Lord Siva and practising austerities. I was in the company of perfected sages with whom I engaged in discussions about the truths of the scriptures. One evening, while worshipping Lord Siva, the atmosphere was filled with peace and silence. The darkness in the forest was so dense that it seemed solid. At that moment, I saw a great light in the forest. Using my external sight, I saw the light and, with my insight, I enquired into its nature. I realized it was Lord Siva himself, walking with his consort Parvati. Nandi, his vehicle, walked ahead, clearing the path. I informed my disciples of the divine presence and went to where the Lord was. I saluted Lord Siva and offered him worship. I spent a long time gazing at the divine vision. Lord Siva then asked me, "Is your austerity proceeding wel...

Day - 210 - Vashishta's discourse continues Ego-Sense and Mind Ghost of Egosense : The false notion of the body being real gives rise to the egosense or mind, which creates fear. Laying this ghost allows one to live without fear in the world. Subservience to Egosense Impermanent Body : The body, created by the illusory ghost known as the mind, is impermanent and unstable. Vasishtha urged Rama to give up this subservience and rest in the self. Friends and Relatives Poisonous Actions : Actions done under the influence of the egosense are poisonous and lead to death. The fool, devoid of wisdom and courage, is already dead, like firewood ready for the fire. Mind's Inability to Harm Awakened Intelligence : When the egosense is ignored and abandoned by awakened intelligence, it cannot harm the self, which is infinite consciousness. Play of Egosense Weeping and Wailing : All suffering in the world is the play of the egosense. The self, like space, is unaffected by it. Actions and the ...

Day 209 - The Teachings of Vasishtha to Rama The Enlightened State Vasishtha's Silence : Vasishtha became silent when he noticed Rama completely absorbed in self-realization. After Rama returned to normal consciousness, Vasishtha resumed his discourse. Attaining Self-Knowledge Exalted State : Vasishtha praised Rama for gaining self-knowledge and encouraged him to remain in this elevated state, free from worldly entanglements. The cycle of birth and death (world-appearance) revolves around ideas and thoughts. When these thoughts cease, the world-appearance also ends. Self-Effort and Wisdom Arresting the Wheel : Vasishtha emphasized using supreme self-effort, strength, wisdom, and common sense to restrain thoughts and notions. This is the only way to achieve mastery over the mind, abandoning the false belief in divine intervention. The Illusory Nature of the Body World-Appearance : The world-appearance started with the Creator's thought-force but is inherently false. Bodies, born...

Day - 208 -  Vasistha's Response to Bhusunda Admiration and Departure Vasistha responded to Bhusunda's inspiring account with admiration, blessing him and expressing gratitude for the experience. Bhusunda, in a gesture of friendship, accompanied Vasistha for a distance before they parted ways. Teaching Rama Vasistha then advised Rama to practice pranayama and live like Bhusunda to achieve similar equanimity and peace. Rama's Inquiry The Body's Origin Rama asked Vasistha about the body's origin, its existence, and who dwells within it. Vasistha explained that the body is an illusory appearance, existing only when the mind perceives it as real. The body is experienced during dreams, daydreams, and various activities, but it is ultimately a product of the mind. Illusory Nature of the World Vasistha emphasized that notions like "this is wealth" or "this is the body" are manifestations of the mind's energy and are illusory. The world and its appea...

Day 207 -  Attaining Equanimity Through Pranayama The Practice and Its Benefits By practicing pranayama regularly and systematically, I have achieved a state of purity and unwavering equanimity. This state of samadhi, or total equanimity, remains unshaken, whether I am walking, standing, awake, asleep, or dreaming. With my focus on the self, I rest in the self, unaffected by changes in the world or environment. I have lived this way since the previous cosmic dissolution, constantly staying present and not contemplating the past or future. I act in the present without concern for results, remaining balanced and peaceful. Union of Prana and Apana My state of happiness and health stems from contemplating the moment of union between prana and apana, revealing the self. I avoid vain thoughts of what I have obtained or will gain. I neither praise nor censure anyone or anything, and my mind remains steady, not exulting over good or becoming depressed over what is considered evil. This bal...

Day 206 - The Teachings of Bhusunda on Prana and Apana The Nature of Prana and Apana Bhusunda explained that prana is the vital air in constant motion inside and outside the body, established in the upper part. Apana, similarly in motion, dwells in the lower part. The practice of controlling this life-force brings benefits to both the awake and the asleep. The Movements of Life-Force The natural outflow of the vital force from the heart-lotus is called recaka (exhalation). Contact with the source of the pranic force, located twelve fingers below in the heart-lotus, is known as puraka (inhalation). When both apana and prana cease to move, it is known as kumbhaka (retention). Effortless Movement of Life-Force The vital air moves up to twelve fingers from oneself, known as recaka. When apana remains in dvadasanta like unfashioned potter's clay, it's called external-kumbhaka. When outgoing air moves to the nose's tip, it is recaka; moving to dvadasanta is external-recaka. The s...

Day 205 - The Unshaken Tree Natural and Cosmic Calamities Bhusunda spoke of a wish-fulfilling tree unaffected by natural and cosmic calamities, even during demonic invasions or cosmic dissolutions. This tree's stability provided safety to its inhabitants. Surviving Cosmic Dissolution During cosmic dissolution, Bhusunda abandoned his nest and united with cosmic space, free from thoughts. He practiced specific meditations to remain unaffected by heat, wind, and floods, and stayed in a state akin to deep sleep until the next cosmic cycle began. VASISTHA's Curiosity Vasishtha questioned why others couldn't do what Bhusunda did. Bhusunda explained that it was the supreme being's will, which dictated the nature and fate of each being. His unique thought-force maintained the tree's presence through all cycles. Memories of Epochs Witnessing World Changes Bhusunda remembered a time when the earth was devoid of vegetation and covered in lava, with no day or night except at th...

Day 204 -  Bhusunda's Tale -  The Divine Celebration While the deities reveled in their festivities, their vehicles also became intoxicated and started to dance. Female swans danced alongside the crow, Canda, who was Alambusa's vehicle. Overcome by desire, these swans mated with the crow, leading to their pregnancies. After the celebration, the deities presented Uma's transformed body as food to Lord Hara (Siva). Understanding the truth, Siva was displeased, and the deities restored Uma to her original form, reuniting her with the Lord. The deities then returned to their abodes, and the swans reported everything to the goddess Brahmi. The Aftermath Brahmi acknowledged the swans' pregnancies and advised them to rest and go where they pleased. She then entered deep contemplation. The swans laid twenty-one eggs, which soon hatched, giving birth to twenty-one offspring in the family of Canda, the crow. These offspring, blessed by Brahmi, attained self-knowledge and liberati...

Day 203 -Description of Bhusunda's Person Bhusunda's Characteristics Appearance and Demeanor:  Bhusunda was as dark as a rain-laden cloud, with a composed and tranquil demeanor. His voice was gentle, and he spoke with a pleasant smile, displaying a deep understanding of the three worlds. Knowledge and Wisdom:  He viewed all things with equanimity, weighing the lives of beings by their experiences. His knowledge encompassed both the knowable and the transcendental. Calm and Joyful Presence:  Bhusunda's presence was serene and joyful, exuding calmness. His tranquil mind was familiar with the cycles of birth and death in the world. Eloquent Narration:  After greeting me, Bhusunda began his narration in a melodious voice, likening it to the delightful rumbling of a rainy cloud. Manners of the Matrika Goddesses Bhusunda's Origin from the Matrikas Divine Associations:  Bhusunda explained his origin from the Matrika goddesses, who were associated with the god Shiva. He...

Day 202 - Conversation of Vasishta and Bhusunda Reception of Vasishta by Bhusunda Vasishta's Arrival: I descended before the aged crow Bhusunda with my radiant, ethereal body, much like a meteor descending onto a mountaintop. My sudden appearance startled the gathered assembly, causing a tremor among them, similar to a gentle breeze shaking the lotuses in a lake. Calm of Bhusunda: However, Bhusunda, who possessed the foresight of past, present, and future, remained unperturbed by my arrival. Recognizing me as Vasishta, he rose from his leafy seat and greeted me warmly. Welcome and Hospitality: Bhusunda welcomed me with sweet, honeyed words and offered me flowers, which he scattered over me like dewdrops. He then offered me a seat made from a newly cut bark of the Kalpa tree, which he had personally prepared. Respect and Reverence: The other birds rose and resumed their seats once Bhusunda and I were seated. The air was filled with the sweet scent of Kalpa creepers, and the bird...

Day 201 - The Story of Bhusunda Introduction by Vasishta Vasishta, one of the revered sages, narrated a fascinating tale to Rama about Bhusunda, a crow who embodied longevity and enlightenment. Vasishta shared his visit to Mount Meru, a mythical mountain described as radiant and divine, where he sought the company of this extraordinary bird. Creation and Origins In the infinite consciousness of Brahma, a mirage-like world appearance exists. Brahma, the creator, resides there, and Vasishta, his mind-born son, recounts his experiences. While in Indra's heaven, Vasishta heard from sages like Narada about beings with remarkable longevity. Sage Satatapa narrated the tale of Bhusunda, a crow dwelling on the Cuta tree at Mount Meru, known for his extraordinary life span and wisdom. The Wish-Fulfilling Tree Mount Meru houses a wish-fulfilling tree, Cuta, with leaves of gold and silver. The tree's branches extend toward the sky, and celestial beings fill the atmosphere with their songs....

Day 200 - Equanimity of the Great Sages Living in Peace and Equanimity Established in the realization of the truth, the great sages lived forever in peace and equanimity. They were free from psychological predispositions and neither sought nor rejected life or death. They remained unshaken in their direct experience like another Meru mountain. Engaging with the World Yet, they roamed the forests, islands, and cities, traveling to the heavens as if they were angels or gods. They conquered their enemies and ruled as emperors, engaging in diverse activities in accordance with scriptural injunctions as they realized that such was appropriate conduct. They enjoyed the pleasures of life, visited pleasure gardens, and were entertained by celestial damsels. They duly fulfilled the duties of household life and even engaged in great wars. Maintaining Equanimity These sages retained their equanimity even in disastrous situations where others would have lost their peace and balanced state of mind....

Day 199 - The Nature of World-Appearance and Ignorance The Illusory Nature of the World World-Appearance and Reality Illusory World : Vasistha explains that the world-appearance, including all beings, is essentially nothing. If conceptualization is eliminated, it becomes clear that individual souls (jivas) are empty expressions. Relationships arising from ignorance are non-existent, akin to mistaking a rope for a snake. Absence of Self-Knowledge : Ignorance or delusion arises from the absence of self-knowledge. When the self is known, limitless intelligence is realized. Avidya (ignorance) occurs when consciousness objectifies itself, creating a subject-object dichotomy. The Metaphor of the Pot and Space Individuality and Mind : The individual is essentially the personalized mind. Individuality ceases when the mind ceases, much like space enclosed in a pot disappears when the pot is broken. Infinite space remains, representing the true nature of consciousness. The Transition from Inanim...

Day -198 - The Creeper of Ignorance  The Spread of Ignorance The Nature of Ignorance Creeper of Ignorance : Vasistha likens ignorance to a creeper flourishing in the forest of world-appearance, rooted in the mountain of consciousness. It embodies the three worlds, with pleasure and pain, being and non-being, wisdom and ignorance as its roots and fruits. Manifestation of Ignorance : Ignorance expands by itself and yields more ignorance. When it seeks wisdom, it grows into wisdom eventually, reflecting its transformative potential. Psychological States and Emotions Pastimes and Modes : Ignorance manifests in various psychological states and emotions. It is purified when it contacts wisdom but can reattach itself. Source of Experiences : The sap of ignorance is the memory of past experiences, feeding emotions and sense-experiences. Enquiry into the self (vicara) acts like a termite, eating away at this creeper. The Cosmic Play of Ignorance Mind and Notions : The mind shakes this creep...

Day 197 - The Illusion of Worldly Delights Vasistha’s Continued Wisdom The Illusion of Worldly Attractions Radiant Women and Delusion : Vasistha explains to Rama that the women adorned with pearls and jewels are creations of delusion. These attractive features are mere modifications of flesh and fat, appearing charming due to delusion. Wealth and Prosperity : Delusion leads one to seek wealth and prosperity, which initially seem sweet but bring opposites like happiness and unhappiness. Pursuit of prosperity results in both pleasure and unhappiness, originating from delusion. The Flow of Delusion : Delusion flows from time immemorial, muddled by actions and reactions. This delusion leads to repeated births, swelling with the bitter consequences of pleasure-seeking actions. The Cycle of Life and Death Youth and Delusion : Youth is haunted by worries and anxieties in the absence of wisdom. Speech serves the common folk, while poverty spreads, bringing unhappiness and hard labor. Greed and...

Day 196 - The Nature of Self and Ignorance Vasistha’s Continued Wisdom Understanding the Body and the Self Declaration of Truth : Vasistha reiterates the truth to Rama, urging him to listen attentively despite assuming the existence of diversity. This listening will expand consciousness and save even the partially awakened from sorrow. Ignorance and Self-Knowledge : The ignorant mistake the body for the self, with senses becoming their worst enemies. In contrast, self-knowledge brings harmony, with the senses becoming friends. Body vs. Self : The self is unaffected by the body, likened to light and darkness. The self transcends modifications and perversions, neither coming into being nor vanishing. The Incomprehensible Nature of the Self Incompatibility of Body and Self : The body is inert, finite, and perishable, incapable of comprehending the eternal consciousness. When one is perceived as real, the other ceases to be, like day and night. Self-Knowledge and Ignorance : Self-knowledge...

Day 195 - Wisdom from Yoga Vasistha The Nature of the Mind, Intellect, and Ego Vasistha’s Explanation In these verses, Sage Vasistha imparts profound wisdom to Rama about the nature of the mind, intellect, and ego: Non-Independent Intelligence : Vasistha states that the mind, intellect, and ego-sense, along with the senses, lack independent intelligence. This raises a fundamental question about the residence and existence of the jiva (individual soul) and its associated faculties. Unity of Consciousness : He compares the self to the moon, which appears multiple due to defective vision or a disturbed reflecting medium. Similarly, the self, or inner consciousness, is singular but appears diverse due to mental agitation caused by thoughts. The End of Ignorance The Cure for Craving Vasistha continues by describing how ignorance and craving for pleasure can be overcome: Dissolution of Ignorance : Just as night ends when darkness recedes, ignorance ceases when the craving for pleasure is era...

Day 194 - The Unity and Universality of Brahma Introduction In this chapter, Vasishtha elaborates on the identity of Brahma with the mind, living soul, the body, the world, and all things. He aims to eliminate all dualisms by establishing the universality of Brahma. The Nature of Intellect The Intellect and the Self Vasishtha begins by comparing the countless waves in the sea to the forms taken by the intellect. Just as waves are temporary forms of water, the intellect manifests itself in various forms, including the soul. This intellect is essentially our true self. The Immaterial Soul He poses a question about the relationship between the immaterial soul and the material world. If the soul is free from earthly concerns, how can it have earthly desires? The spiritual soul, he suggests, has no concern with the material world. Manifestations of the Intellect Forms of the Intellect The intellect manifests itself in various forms: the living soul, the mind and its desires, the world, and ...

Day 193 -Nirvana-Prakarana Chapter II: On the Perfect Calm and Composure of the Mind Argument The sages join the assembly the next morning and preach divine knowledge to the audience. The Beginning of a New Day The Dissipation of Night Valmiki describes the night as a face as dark as the darkened moon, gradually disappearing like ignorance and human desires before the light of reason. The rising sun crowned with golden rays on the eastern horizon symbolizes the dispelling of darkness and ignorance. The morning breeze, moistened by moonbeams and ice particles, refreshes the rising sun, signifying the renewal of the day. Morning Rituals Rama, Lakshmana, and their attendants rise from their beds, perform their morning services, and proceed to the holy hermitage of Sage Vasishtha. They see the Sage emerging from his morning devotion and offer him arghya (flowers and presents). The hermitage becomes crowded with munis (sages), Brahmans, princes, and chiefs, their vehicles blocking the pathw...

Day 192 - Nirvana-Prakarana Chapter I: Evening and the Assembly's Dispersal Introduction Valmiki's Prelude: Valmiki introduces the subject of Nirvana, urging the audience to grasp the concept of ultimate liberation. The Sage's Discourse The Sage's Captivating Speech: As the chief sage speaks eloquently, the assembly, including princes and chiefs, listens intently, captivated by his words. Audience's Reaction: The audience is deeply moved, appearing as still and focused as portraits, forgetting their devotions in their immersion in the sage's discourse. Evening's Descent The Setting Sun: The sun sets in the west, its radiant beams fading, symbolizing the knowledge and truth realized at the end of life's journey. Nature's Response: The evening winds blow softly, seemingly to listen to the sage, while the sounds of nature quieten in deep meditation. The calm waters and shimmering lakes appear undisturbed, reflecting the serene atmosphere. Royal Palace...

Day 191 - Breaking Through Illusion: The Path to Liberation (Continued) This passage from the Yoga Vasistha builds upon the previous section, offering practical guidance for achieving liberation. It emphasizes self-inquiry as the key tool for dismantling mental conditioning and attaining the supreme state. Eradicating the Seeds of Sorrow: The text acknowledges the interconnected nature of the "seeds" of distraction. Each seed, representing a stage in the cycle of illusion, needs to be addressed to achieve true liberation. However, the most efficient approach is to directly access the state of pure existence, bypassing these stages. This requires intense self-effort and a complete surrender to the experience of being. Challenges of Liberation: The passage acknowledges the difficulty of this path. It highlights the interdependent nature of the mind, conditioning, and the experience of truth. All three aspects influence each other, making it challenging to address them separatel...

Day 190 - Delving Deeper: The Seeds of Illusion and Liberation This passage from the Yoga Vasistha offers a profound exploration of the mind's origins, the nature of illusion, and the path to liberation. It goes beyond the basic concepts introduced in the story of King Suraghu, delving into the very essence of consciousness itself. Roots of the Mind-Tree: The text identifies two primary seeds for the "mind-tree": Movement of Prana (life-force): Prana, the vital energy that animates the body, plays a crucial role. When prana flows through specific channels, it interacts with consciousness. This interaction, according to the text, creates the mind. This concept aligns with yogic practices that emphasize pranayama (breath control) as a tool to regulate prana and achieve mental tranquility. Obstinate Fancy: Clinging to unverified ideas or desires is another seed. When we stubbornly hold onto these "fancies," we create a distorted perception of reality. This con...

Day 189 -  The Sage Vitahavya: A Masterclass in Self-Realization The story of Vitahavya offers a profound exploration of self-realization and liberation. Here's a breakdown of the key themes: The Path of Self-Inquiry: Vitahavya's journey mirrors the importance of self-inquiry. Through deep meditation and the contemplation of "OM," he dismantles his ego and attachments, ultimately reaching the state of pure consciousness. Transcending Duality: Vitahavya surpasses the limitations of perception, moving beyond both light and darkness, being and non-being. This signifies the dissolution of duality, a core principle in achieving liberation. The Nature of Reality: The text suggests that reality transcends labels and descriptions. Vitahavya experiences a state beyond definition, hinting at the ineffable nature of ultimate truth. The Body and Liberation: The story raises questions about the body's fate during liberation. Vitahavya's body remains intact due to his ...

Day 188 - Vitahavya's Final Journey Entering Deep Meditation Vitahavya retreated to a cave on the Sahya mountain He sat in lotus posture for his final contemplation Farewell to Worldly Experiences Addressing Emotions and Sensations Bid farewell to attraction, hate, pleasures, and sorrow Thanked sorrow for spurring his quest for self-knowledge Gratitude to the Body Thanked his body for being a long-time companion Acknowledged the body's role in attaining self-realization Releasing Attachments Letting Go of Desires Addressed craving and lust, bidding them farewell Expressed gratitude to merit and even demerit Appreciation for Spiritual Aids Thanked the cave for providing shelter during meditation Expressed gratitude to his staff for protection Returning to the Elements Dissolution of the Physical Form Asked the body to return to its constituent elements Bid farewell to various bodily activities and life-forces Addressing the Senses Instructed se...