Day 249 - The Radiance of Cudala

Day 249 - The Radiance of Cudala

Vasistha continued:

As time passed, Queen Cudala became more inwardly focused, finding increasing joy in the bliss of the self. She was free from desires and attachments, acting naturally and spontaneously without seeking or avoiding anything. She had crossed beyond the cycle of worldly existence and rested in a state of profound peace. Her self-knowledge made her radiant, and she realized that this world, just like it had appeared, would one day vanish.

Noticing her extraordinary radiance and calmness, King Sikhidhvaja asked her, "You seem to have regained your youth and shine with a unique light. You seem undisturbed by anything and filled with bliss. Have you discovered some divine secret or nectar?"

Cudala’s Response:

Cudala replied, "I have let go of this empty world that only appears to have substance. I am rooted in truth, not in appearances, and that is why I am radiant. I remain in a state that is both real and unreal, knowing it for what it is. I do not seek pleasure, wealth, or any other worldly thing. I am content with whatever comes without effort and find joy in the non-pursuit of pleasures. Even in the midst of royal gardens, I remain firmly established in the self, which is why I shine so brightly."

Cudala’s Wisdom Misunderstood:

Unable to grasp the depth of Cudala’s wisdom, Sikhidhvaja laughed and said, "My dear, you speak like a child. How can someone shine after giving up everything? Enjoy the pleasures that life offers; thinking you find delight in emptiness is senseless!"

Vasistha continued:

After dismissing her words, the king left, leaving Cudala to reflect on his inability to understand her enlightenment. Despite this, they continued to live together peacefully. Eventually, Cudala, desiring the ability to move freely in space, sought solitude to practice controlling her life force (prana).

Vasistha’s Teaching on Siddhis:

Vasistha then explained to Rama that there are three types of goals in life: desirable, detestable, and indifferent. However, for the enlightened, these distinctions do not exist—they see everything as a play and remain indifferent to all.

To achieve siddhis (psychic powers), one must focus on time, place, action, and means, with effort being the most crucial factor. However, immature practices like magic pills or rituals can be harmful. True achievements come from pranayama, the practice of controlling the life force, which can lead to mastery over everything from worldly sovereignty to total liberation.

Within the body lies the nadi called antravestika, the source of all energy channels, which is coiled at its base and connected to every part of the body. This nadi houses the kundalini, the supreme power that, when awakened through pranayama, brings awareness and understanding. All other nadis are connected to the kundalini, making it the seed of consciousness and knowledge.