Day 195 - The Nature of the Mind, Intellect, and Ego

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:

1. 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.

2. 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:

1. Dissolution of Ignorance:

   • Just as night ends when darkness recedes, ignorance ceases when the craving for pleasure is eradicated.
   • This craving is described as a deadly virus, cured by the "magic formula" of scriptural declarations.

2. Transformation of the Mind:

   • When wickedness or foolishness ends, the mind and its retinue vanish, likened to pearls scattering when the connecting thread breaks.
   • Vasistha warns that those who abandon the scriptures are self-destructive, choosing to live like worms and vermin.

Attaining Steadiness and Clarity

The Impact of Wisdom

Vasistha illustrates the transformative power of wisdom and guidance:

1. Calmness of the Mind:

   • When ignorance-induced agitation ceases, the mind becomes steady, just as the lake’s surface calms when the wind subsides.
   • He acknowledges that Rama has reached this steadiness, having intently listened to his words.

2. Influence of a Preceptor:

   • Even ordinary individuals are influenced by their family preceptor's words.
   • For one with expanded vision like Rama, the effect is even more profound.

Rama’s Realization

Rama’s Response

Rama reflects on his transformation:

1. Perception of the World:

   • By listening to Vasistha’s wisdom, Rama perceives the external world as insubstantial.
   • His mind has ceased, and he rests in supreme peace, seeing the world as infinite consciousness.

2. Freedom from Duality:

   • Rama is free from attraction and resistance, established in his true nature (svasthah) and happy.
   • He acknowledges his oneness with the universe and the refuge he provides for the worlds.

3. Transcendence and Bliss:

   • Reflecting on his past, Rama smiles at his former dualistic ideas.
   • He expresses gratitude for Vasistha’s words, which have immersed him in supreme bliss, living in the world of light while still in this world.

Advisory to Modern Society

The wisdom from Yoga Vasistha remains relevant for modern society:

1. Seek Inner Wisdom:

   • Understand that the mind, intellect, and ego are not independent entities but are part of a greater consciousness.
   • Embrace scriptural wisdom to dissolve ignorance and cravings, leading to true peace and happiness.

2. Value Guidance:

   • Recognize the importance of guidance from enlightened teachers and preceptors.
   • Their wisdom can transform lives, providing clarity and stability in an otherwise turbulent existence.

3. Realize Oneness:

   • Strive to see beyond the illusion of duality and recognize the unity of consciousness.
   • This realization brings profound peace and contentment, transcending worldly pleasures and pains.

By integrating these timeless teachings into daily life, individuals can elevate their consciousness and contribute to the collective well-being of humanity.