Day 289 - Deeper Inquiry into the Nature of Existence

Day 289 - Deeper Inquiry into the Nature of Existence

In this section of Yoga Vasistha, Vasistha addresses Rama's questions regarding the different attitudes towards life, death, and the nature of existence. Here are some key points from Vasistha's teachings:

1. Attitude Toward Life and Death:

• Live Happily as Long as Possible: Some people believe that since death is inevitable, one should enjoy life while it lasts, and that once the body is gone, there is nothing left. Vasistha responds by explaining that one's experience is shaped by their inner beliefs and understanding of reality.
• Consciousness as the Core of Existence: Vasistha emphasizes that consciousness is the true essence of existence, not the body. Even materialists who claim that the physical world is all there is do not deny the existence of consciousness, as it is through consciousness that they perceive and discuss the world.

2. The Reality of Consciousness and the Illusion of Samsara:

• The World as a Notion in Consciousness: Vasistha explains that this world is essentially a concept or notion that arises within consciousness. When one is established in the understanding that consciousness alone is real, the dualities of pleasure and pain dissolve. The experiences of pleasure and pain only persist for those who consider the world to be separate from consciousness.
• The Inescapable Nature of Samsara: Regardless of whether one views the world as a permanent reality or a transient phenomenon, the experience of suffering and pleasure continues. The key difference lies in recognizing that all experiences, whether considered real or illusory, arise in consciousness.

3. Different Beliefs About Reality:

• Various Views of the Universe: Some people view the universe as indestructible and permanent, while others see it as constantly changing. There are those who believe in the reality of the material world, while others hold that everything is consciousness. Vasistha affirms that everyone experiences reality according to their own understanding and conviction.
• The Pitfalls of Materialism: Those who believe that the world and sense experiences alone are real are considered "asleep" or spiritually unaware. They remain caught in the illusion of duality, which brings suffering.

4. The True Nature of Liberation:

• Seeing Through the Illusion: When one realizes that the world is a manifestation of consciousness, they become free from delusion, attachment, and suffering. This realization allows them to live life spontaneously, without being affected by the ever-changing nature of existence.
• Death and Rebirth: For the wise, death is not a cause for fear or sorrow. If there is rebirth, it is a continuation of consciousness. If there is no rebirth, then death simply ends the cycle of birth and death. Thus, death should be seen as a natural and joyful transition.

5. Characteristics of the Realized Sage:

• Equanimity and Acceptance: A true sage remains unaffected by external circumstances. They see harmony in disharmony, joy in sorrow, and action in non-action. Whether living in a palace or a forest, they remain in a state of inner peace.
• Compassion Without Attachment: The enlightened one shows compassion towards others without becoming attached or emotionally disturbed. They act appropriately according to the situation, without identifying with the experiences of pleasure or pain.
• Living Spontaneously: The sage engages in actions spontaneously, without being driven by desires or aversions. Their life is marked by effortless action, compassion, and a deep inner peace.

6. Distinguishing the Wise from the Ignorant:

• True Wisdom vs. Pretense: Even though some may imitate the behavior of enlightened beings, true wisdom is characterized by inner peace, spontaneity, and lack of desire for recognition or admiration. True sages do not seek to show off their knowledge or spiritual powers; they remain humble and self-contained.
• Psychic Powers Are Not the Goal: Vasistha points out that even ignorant people can acquire psychic powers through effort or use of mantras and other practices. However, these powers often strengthen the ego and mental conditioning, whereas true enlightenment leads to a state where the world is seen as insignificant.

7. Living with Awareness of Brahman:

• The Enlightened Person's Perspective: For the enlightened, even significant events such as birth and death are seen as mere transitions within the realm of consciousness. There is no attachment to the outcomes of actions, and life is lived without the sense of "I" and "mine."
• Beyond Duality: The sage experiences both worldly life and spiritual wisdom, without clinging to either. They engage in life's activities with joy and detachment, understanding the illusory nature of all phenomena.

This teaching encourages a deeper inquiry into the nature of existence, where the realization of one's true identity as consciousness leads to liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and suffering. Vasistha emphasizes the need for inner transformation, where one sees beyond the physical world and understands the underlying reality of pure consciousness.