Day288 - Undivided and Unchanging nature of conciousness

Day288 - Undivided and Unchanging nature of Conciousness

This section of the Yoga Vasistha delves deeply into the nature of reality, consciousness, and the illusory nature of the world. Here are the key insights from Vasistha's teachings:

1. The Nature of Reality and Brahman:

• Brahman as the Sole Reality: Vasistha explains that nothing truly exists other than Brahman, which is pure, indivisible consciousness. All perceptions of creation, the cosmic being, or diversity are like dream objects within consciousness and do not create any real division in the infinite consciousness itself. Essentially, the entire universe is a manifestation of the indivisible consciousness, which remains unchanged.
• Illusion of Creation: Just as the objects in a dream do not actually exist apart from the dreamer, the notion of creation does not exist apart from consciousness. Thus, the world and its various forms are like reflections or illusions within the consciousness, not separate realities.

2. The Nature of Consciousness and Identity:

• The Unchanging Consciousness: The essence of all beings is pure consciousness, which does not undergo any change. This realization brings liberation from the notions of birth, death, pleasure, and pain. When a person identifies with the body, they lose their wisdom and strength, but when they identify as pure consciousness, they transcend suffering and illusion.
• Freedom from Birth and Death: Since consciousness itself does not experience birth or death, the individual who realizes "I am pure consciousness" becomes unaffected by these concepts. Fear of death arises only when one identifies with the physical body.

3. The Illusory World and Different Perspectives:

• The World as a Dream of the Supreme Self: The world is compared to a dream experienced by the infinite self. While it is perceived by consciousness, the true nature of consciousness remains unseen, hidden behind the illusion. This makes the world appear real, but only because of the power of illusion or Maya.
• Various Theories About Reality: Vasistha acknowledges different views on the nature of reality. Some people view the universe as a conglomeration of atoms, some see it as a manifestation of ignorance (like mistaking a rope for a snake in darkness), while others view it as the subjective experience of the perceiver. Each of these perspectives holds some truth because they are based on direct experiences or beliefs. Vasistha suggests that whatever one truly believes or perceives becomes real for that individual.

4. The Role of Wise Men and Saints:

• Seek the Company of the Wise: Vasistha encourages associating with wise individuals who exhibit qualities such as gentleness, common sense, and a balanced demeanor. These wise men serve as guides, alleviating sorrow, and helping others navigate through the difficulties of life. Even if a saint exhibits some flaws, their overall presence can still be beneficial.
• The Rare Liberated Souls: While wise men and saints exist among gods, demons, and humans, truly liberated beings are extremely rare. The nature of samsara (the cycle of birth and death) keeps most beings in ignorance, making liberation uncommon.

5. The Universal Struggle for All Beings:

• The Shared Experience of Samsara: Vasistha notes that not only humans but all beings, including animals, insects, and even plants, experience life’s struggles. All living beings have desires and aversions, and strive for survival in their own ways. The difference lies in their understanding of the world and their capacity for knowledge.
• The Consciousness of All Beings: Even seemingly insentient beings like trees and rocks are considered to rest in consciousness. Though their awareness might not manifest in the same way as it does in humans, they are still part of the infinite consciousness.

6. The Cessation of Ignorance and Delusion:

• The Role of Ignorance: Ignorance is the root cause of all delusion, making the world appear real and causing the perception of separation and suffering. When this ignorance is dispelled through understanding, the world is recognized as a mere appearance in consciousness, like a reflection in a mirror.
• The Dream-Like Nature of the World: The world is likened to a reflection that appears to produce real effects, yet has no substance of its own. Just as a dream may feel real while it lasts, the world appears real to those who remain ignorant of its true nature.

7. Practical Application for Liberation:

• The Importance of Self-Inquiry: Vasistha encourages self-inquiry as a means of dispelling ignorance and realizing one's true nature as pure consciousness. By understanding the illusory nature of the world, one can attain liberation and peace.
• Living with Wisdom: Once one realizes the illusory nature of the world, they no longer get caught up in its transient pleasures and pains. Instead, they remain steady, experiencing life as it unfolds without attachment or aversion.

This teaching emphasizes the importance of recognizing the illusory nature of the world and realizing the undivided, unchanging nature of pure consciousness (Brahman). The guidance provided by wise individuals and self-inquiry can help transcend ignorance and lead to liberation from the cycle of birth and death.