Miscellaneous - Religion   

Conquest of the mind

CHENNAI: The path to liberation is only for those who renounce the attractions of the materialistic world and scriptures repeatedly reinforce this truth in a myriad ways. Using the backdrop of interesting contexts and valuable discussions, the sacred text Yoga Vasishta contains instruction on the nature of the Eternal Self and focuses on the hurdles that come in the way of the Jivatma’s Self-realisation.

For instance, the conversation between Bali and his father Virochana in this text highlights this challenge and shows the steps by which one can gain the truth of the Self (Atma Tatva), said Sri Mani Dravid Sastri in a lecture. Bali, the grandson of the devout Prahlada, was blessed by the Lord who personally took care of his welfare, and he reigned supreme for many years with no worry at all. But he remained restless in this satiated state and his mind sought something more lasting.

At some point of time, an intelligent person will be able to see beyond the hollow nature of worldly attainments, wealth, fame, glory, etc., and ponder on what is permanent. Bali wondered if there was any gain from all these riches. He craved for that which would lead him to eternal bliss, which is the ultimate goal for mankind.

Bali meditated and understood that knowledge of Atma Tatva would be the answer and he sought instruction from his father Virochana. Virochana makes it clear that mind is the cause of bondage and liberation. Both happiness and sorrow are reflections perceived by the mind. Using the analogy of a king and a minister, for the Self and the mind, the father shows that it is with the help of the mind that one can gain access to one’s self. The power of the mind causes attraction to worldly attainments and thus diverts one’s attention and its conquest alone makes this quest attainable. It is an unusual situation because the mind’s power extends to the senses and unless these are held in check the Self cannot be seen. Once the mind experiences the Self it turns its focus in that direction when the Self (king) manages to control it (minister).

Moksha is the attainment of the essence of the bliss of the Supreme Brahman through knowledge of the Self and confers freedom from births.

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