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Strive for inner peace

CHENNAI : The goal of spiritual endeavour is to attain liberation. To pursue this goal it is necessary to gain access to the wisdom enshrined in the Vedas since tradition acknowledges the authority of the Vedas.

The Upanishads that contain the essence of Vedic teachings, along with the Brahma Sutras and the Bhagavad Gita that contain the core of the Upanishads — collectively known as the Prasthanatraya — are the three source texts for higher knowledge leading to the fulfilment of the ultimate purpose of human life.

The efficacy of the path of renunciation that alone leads to liberation is reiterated in the Kaivalyopanishad. It claims, "Not by means of rituals, or man-power or wealth but by renunciation alone can immortality be attained".

The act of renunciation involves a great effort and ensuing pain, since it is difficult for a person caught in human life to relinquish the emotional attachment to worldly objects, wealth, possession, obligation, relationship, etc., pointed out Swamini Satyavratananda in a lecture. But one is liberated when one renounces all attachment and desires. This is a prime requisite for eternal happiness.

Though the world appears real, one must be aware that it is deluding us and Sastras caution against longing for worldly possessions as this comes in the way of renunciation. A mature person realises that constant joy or peace of mind is available only within oneself and never in outside objects.

Sanyasa Yoga implies relinquishment of worldly commitments that can distract and mislead from the soul's quest for self-knowledge. He who has mastered the act of sacrifice by conscious effort to eliminate attachment to the world is a Sanyasi.

There is self-effulgence in him who focuses on self-knowledge and has no doubts regarding his priorities. In such a person, the sorrow produced by one's involvement in the ups and downs of life also gets destroyed.

With faith and determination one has to seek the guidance of Sastras and knowledgeable preceptors to pursue the right effort in the right direction.

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