Miscellaneous - Religion   

Within, yet aloof

CHENNAI: The philosophical and metaphysical insights revealed in the Bhagavad Gita serve to enlighten seekers of true knowledge. Lord Krishna clarifies to Arjuna the mystery of the immortal individual soul that dwells within the mortal body, and draws attention to the subtlest of truths that one needs to learn, grasp and internalise if one has to escape births. The central paradox of change versus the eternal is resolved in Lord Krishna's exposition regarding the functions of the Kshetra (field) and the Kshetrajna (the knower of the field), pointed out Swamini Satyavratananda in a lecture.

The body is called the field in which events — growth, decline, death, etc. — happen. It is here the individual sows the seeds of action and reaps its fruits. The wise proclaim that the Kshetrajna (the knower of the field) is the Self that resides within the body and watches the activities taking place in it.

It is merely the Self's proximity with the body that prompts it to identify itself with the physical, emotional, psychological and intellectual activities of the body, whereas in reality, the Self's role is no more than that of a witness. But it tends to forget that its role is merely being aware of the conduct of the body mind complex, and begins to experience joy and sorrow that are the effects of the three Gunas, Satva, Rajas and Tamas, inhering in the field.

When the distinction between the field and the knower is perceived with perfect clarity, the Self checks itself from falling into the trap of Avidya (ignorance) that makes it align itself with the body, and instead regards itself as a mere witness. What is experienced may be varied and will certainly change while the Self remains unchanging. This truth releases the Self from its seeming similarity with the body and the consequent effects thereof, the cycle of rebirths.

In addition, the Self is also the cause of the functions and nature of the body mind complex. It is imperative for the Self to transcend the experiences related to the body and recognise its unique everlasting nature that establishes its affinity with the Supreme Being.

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